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Crispus Attucks

Former Slave and Seaman Crispus Attucks

Profession: Former Slave and Seaman

Nationality:
United States of America
American

Biography: Crispus Attucks was the first man to be killed by British soldiers during the 1770 Boston Massacre and the 1st man to die in the American Revolution.

A former slave and merchant seaman, Attacks was of both African American and native Wampanoag descent. As such, he later became a significant figure for the abolitionist movement and the American Revolution.

Birthplace: Framingham, Massachusetts, USA

Died: March 5, 1770
Cause of Death: Shot

Articles and Photos

Historical Events

  • 1770-03-05 Boston Massacre (Incident on King Street): British soldiers kill 5 men in a crowd throwing snowballs, stones and sticks at them. African American Crispus Attucks 1st to die; later held up as early black martyr. Massacre galvanizes anti-British feelings.
  • 1858-03-05 Abolitionists establish "Crispus Attucks Day" in Boston

Famous Americans