• Biography

Lewis Henry Morgan (1818-1881) was an American anthropologist, lawyer, and social theorist. He is best known for his groundbreaking work on kinship and social organization, which laid the foundation for modern anthropology.

Early Life

Lewis Henry Morgan was born in Aurora, New York, on November 21, 1818. He was the son of a successful farmer and businessman, and was raised in a comfortable, middle-class home. He attended Union College in Schenectady, New York, where he studied law and graduated in 1836. After graduation, he moved to Rochester, New York, and established a successful law practice.

Career

In 1851, Morgan published his first book, League of the Iroquois, which was based on his research of the Iroquois people. This book was the first comprehensive study of a Native American tribe and was highly influential in the field of anthropology. In 1871, he published his most famous work, Systems of Consanguinity and Affinity of the Human Family, which was a detailed study of kinship and social organization. This book was highly influential in the development of modern anthropology and is still used as a reference today.

In addition to his work in anthropology, Morgan was also a successful lawyer and businessman. He was a partner in the law firm of Morgan, Ward, and Company, and was a director of several banks and railroads. He was also a member of the New York State Assembly from 1858 to 1861.

Legacy

Morgan's work on kinship and social organization was highly influential in the development of modern anthropology. His work was used as a reference by many anthropologists, including Franz Boas and Bronislaw Malinowski. His work also had a major impact on the development of sociology, as his theories of social evolution and kinship were highly influential in the development of the discipline.

Morgan's legacy also extends beyond the field of anthropology. He was a major proponent of the temperance movement and was a strong advocate for Native American rights. He was also a major proponent of women's rights and was a strong supporter of the suffrage movement.

Conclusion

Lewis Henry Morgan was a pioneering anthropologist, lawyer, and social theorist. His groundbreaking work on kinship and social organization laid the foundation for modern anthropology and had a major impact on the development of sociology. He was also a major proponent of the temperance movement, Native American rights, and women's rights. His legacy continues to influence the fields of anthropology and sociology to this day.

Date modified: Apr 5, 2023
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