James Bowdoin

James Bowdoin II was an American political and intellectual leader from Boston, Massachusetts, during the American Revolution and the following decade. He initially gained fame and influence as a wealthy merchant. He served in both branches of the Massachusetts General Court from the 1750s to the 1770s. Although he was initially supportive of the royal governors, he opposed British colonial policy and eventually became an influential advocate of independence. He authored a highly political report on the 1770 Boston Massacre that has been described by historian Francis Walett as one of the most influential pieces of writing that shaped public opinion in the colonies.

7 August 1726

Born on the same birth day (7 August): Anne Fadiman • Art Houtteman • Carlos Vives • Charles E. Rice • David Duchovny • Dimitrios Eleftheropoulos • Elinor Ostrom • John Birmingham • Josh Franceschi • Karel Husa • Kees Kist • Kenny Ireland • Lana Cantrell • Markus Bundi • Martin Vučić • Matthew Evans, Baron Evans of Temple Guiting • Mohammed Badie • Murat Dalkılıç • Rahsaan Roland Kirk • Richard Sykes (microbiologist) • Robert Mueller • Sidney Crosby

Born in the same month (August 1726): Francesco Cetti