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Morgan Lewis
Morgan Lewis (portrait by Henry Inman).png
Gubernatorial portrait of Morgan Lewis
3rd Governor of New York
In office
July 1, 1804 – June 30, 1807
Lieutenant John Broome
Preceded by George Clinton
Succeeded by Daniel D. Tompkins
New York State Attorney General
In office
November 8, 1791 – December 24, 1792
Governor George Clinton
John Jay
Preceded by Morgan Lewis
Succeeded by Josiah Ogden Hoffman
Personal details
Born (1754-10-16)October 16, 1754
New York City, Province of New York, British America
Died April 7, 1844(1844-04-07) (aged 89)
New York City, US
Political party Democratic-Republican
Spouses
Gertrude Livingston
(m. 1779; her death 1833)
Relations Maturin Livingston (son-in-law)
Children Margret Lewis Livingston
Parents Francis Lewis
Elizabeth Annisley
Signature

Morgan Lewis (born October 16, 1754 – died April 7, 1844) was an important American leader. He was a lawyer, a politician, and a military general. He served in the New York State Assembly and Senate. He also held important jobs like New York's Attorney General and Governor.

Early Life and Family

Morgan Lewis was born in New York City on October 16, 1754. His father was Francis Lewis, who was one of the people who signed the Declaration of Independence. This meant Morgan grew up in a family that cared a lot about their country.

He studied at Princeton College (now Princeton University). He graduated in 1773. After college, he began studying law.

Serving His Country

Morgan Lewis was a soldier during the American Revolutionary War. He joined the Continental Army and became an aide to General Horatio Gates. He helped with important battles, like the Battle of Saratoga. This battle was a big win for the Americans.

After the war, he continued his military service. He eventually became a major general in the New York State Militia. This showed his dedication to protecting his state.

Starting in Politics

After the war, Lewis became a lawyer. He also started his career in politics. He was elected to the New York State Assembly in 1789 and again in 1792. The Assembly is part of New York's law-making body.

In 1791, he became the Attorney General of New York. This job meant he was the chief lawyer for the state. He served in this role until 1801. He worked under Governors George Clinton and John Jay.

Governor of New York

Morgan Lewis was elected the 3rd Governor of New York in 1804. He served one term, from July 1, 1804, to June 30, 1807. As governor, he was the chief executive of the state.

During his time as governor, he focused on improving education. He also worked on making New York's laws better. He was a member of the Democratic-Republican Party.

Later Years and Legacy

After his term as governor, Lewis continued to be active in public life. He served in the New York State Senate from 1811 to 1814. The Senate is the other part of New York's law-making body.

He also continued his military service. He was a general during the War of 1812. He helped lead American forces in important campaigns.

Morgan Lewis passed away on April 7, 1844, in New York City. He was 89 years old. He is remembered as a person who served his state and country in many important ways. He was a soldier, a lawyer, and a leader in government.

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