|
Bowdoin, James (1726–1790)| American public official. A supporter of American independence, he was elected to the Massachusetts General Court 1753, chosen as a member of the Governor's Council 1757, and served on the Massachusetts Executive Council 1775–76. He was president of the state constitutional convention 1779–80 and governor 1785–87. |
| Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, is named after him, in recognition of his scientific research. |
| Born in Boston, Bowdoin was educated at Harvard University. He was the first president of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. In a letter to the diplomat and scientist Benjamin Franklin, Bowdoin suggested that the phosphorescence of the sea was caused by animalcules (bioluminescence). While he was governor of Massachusetts, Bowdoin suppressed the insurrection known as Shay's Rebellion. |
How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content. |
?Sign in  |
|---|
|
|
|