Born: 1803 (Hartford, Connecticut)
Died: December 17, 1879
Biography:
Maria W. Stewart (née Miller) (1803 December 17, 1879) was an American teacher, journalist, abolitionist, and lecturer known for her significant contributions to the anti-slavery and women’s rights movements in the United States. As the first known American woman to speak publicly in front of a mixed audience of both men and women, white and black, she shattered barriers and paved the way for future activists. Furthermore, Stewart holds the distinction of being the first African American woman to deliver public lectures addressing women’s rights and advocating for the abolition of slavery.
Stewart’s intellectual prowess and powerful oratory skills earned her recognition as a prominent figure in the fight against slavery. In 1831, The Liberator published two pamphlets authored by Stewart, titled Religion and the Pure Principles of Morality, The Sure Foundation on Which We Must Build and Meditations from the Pen of Mrs. Maria Stewart (1832). These publications passionately advocated for the full emancipation of Black people and promoted the idea of Black autonomy.
In February 1833, Stewart made history by addressing the African Masonic Lodge in Boston. However, her lecture caused an uproar among the audience when she proclaimed that black men lacked ambition and courage, sparking controversy and ultimately leading to the end of her brief lecturing career. Despite this setback, seven months later, she delivered a farewell address at the African Meeting House (Paul’s Church).
Following her departure from Boston, Stewart relocated to various cities, including New York City, Baltimore, and finally settling in Washington, D.C. In these cities, she continued her advocacy work by working as a schoolteacher and later became the head matron at Freedmen’s Hospital. Her dedication to education and healthcare for freedmen marked her commitment to improving the lives of African Americans.
Maria W. Stewart’s early life was fraught with hardship. She was born Maria Miller in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1803. Tragedy struck at an early age when both of her parents passed away when she was just three years old. As a result, she was sent to live with a minister and his family, working as an indentured servant until the age of 15, without receiving any formal education.
In her journey toward self-improvement and personal growth, Stewart moved to Boston and worked as a domestic servant. On August 10, 1826, she married James W. Stewart, an independent shipping agent. Their marriage lasted three years but tragically produced no children. After her husband’s death in 1829, the executors of his estate denied Maria her rightful inheritance. The injustice of this moment served as a catalyst for Stewart’s burgeoning interest in women’s rights and the inequalities they faced.
A trailblazer in the fight for equal rights, Maria W. Stewart’s contributions to society were profound. By fearlessly speaking out on abolition and women’s rights, Stewart passionately advocated for the rights and empowerment of both African Americans and women. Her powerful speeches and writings inspired future generations of activists and played an essential role in the advancement of these causes.