John Laurens
John Laurens was a Revolutionary Abolitionist who criticized slavery and recruited slaves to fight for their freedom during the American Revolutionary War.
War Hero
October 28, 1754
Scorpio
August 27, 1782
27
South Carolina
John Laurens (1754-1782) was a prominent American soldier and statesman from South Carolina who played a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War. He is best known for his strong advocacy for the abolition of slavery and his attempts to enlist slaves as U.S. soldiers to fight for their freedom. Additionally, Laurens was instrumental in negotiating with France for aid and supplies during the war. His notable achievements include serving as aide-de-camp to General George Washington and leading the successful attack on British-occupied Augusta, Georgia.
Laurens is also portrayed by Anthony Ramos in the highly acclaimed musical “Hamilton.” He studied law at the Middle Temple in London, England, and was a Revolutionary Abolitionist who openly criticized slavery. His efforts to recruit enslaved individuals to fight against the British were groundbreaking at the time.