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On this day in 1752, founding father Gouverneur Morris was born in Morrisania, New York

January 31, 2022

|Recurring Event (See all)

An event every year that begins at 12:00 am on day 31 of January, repeating indefinitely

On this day in 1752, founding father Gouverneur Morris was born in Morrisania, New York (present-day New York City). Though less famous than other founders, Morris was considered the “Penman of the Constitution,” and is credited with wording the famous preamble, “We the People of the United States of America…” Aside from his key role in developing the new constitutional government, Morris also served as a diplomat to France and witnessed much of the carnage of the French Revolution.

Did you know? Gouverneur Morris may be one of the most colorful founding fathers. Though he lost his leg as a young man, it didn’t stop him from riding horses, steeple-climbing (!), and dancing with his peg leg. A ladies’ man throughout most of his life, he didn’t marry until his late 50s.

His unique name does indeed mean “governor” and was originally his mother’s maiden name.

Gouverneur Morris, Pierre Henri, 1798

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January 31, 2022
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