3.2: The First Financier: Robert Morris and the Bank of North America

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He was one of the wealthiest men in the colonies, so by extension, the United States of America.  Foreign-born to unwed parents, he had the reputation of being a financial wizard who understood commerce, markets, and how to maximize profit.  Victory at Yorktown would not have occurred were it not for the efforts of this man, who was Superintendent of Finance as the American Revolution drew to a close. Robert Morris  sought to place the finances of America on sound footing with the creation of the Bank of North America, an institution that was ahead of its time.

Key People
Robert Morris
John Dickinson
Alexander Hamilton

Key Events/Ideas
Bank of North America
Articles of Confederation
American Revolution

The third season of History: Beyond the Textbook focuses on the stories of individuals who shaped "America's Crucial Years" of 1783-1790, and runs from October 8-December 24. Catch up on Season One, "America's Colonial Era," and Season Two, "America's Revolution," wherever you listen to your podcasts!

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