Toussaint, Pierre (1766–1853)

US philanthropist. A devout Catholic who became highly successful in business, he spent much of his money on charities and personally nursed and housed people in need. Toussaint was born in Santo Domingo. Brought to New York City as a slave in 1787, he worked as a hairdresser; supporting his owner's wife when she became widowed and impoverished. He was emancipated in 1807.