Founded the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) to protect and advocate for animal welfare, pioneering animal rights in the US.
Henry Bergh is best known for founding the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) in 1866, a groundbreaking organization that revolutionized the way animals were treated in the United States. Additionally, he played a crucial role in shaping the New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (MSPCC), further cementing his legacy as a champion of compassionate social reform.
Born on August 29, 1813, in New York City, Henry Bergh was the son of Christian Bergh III, a successful shipbuilder of German descent. After attending Columbia College, Bergh joined his father's shipbuilding business, where he worked until his father's passing in 1843. The large estate left to the Bergh children enabled Henry to pursue his interests, including traveling to Europe, where he spent five years touring the continent.
In 1862, President Abraham Lincoln appointed Bergh as secretary of the U.S. legation in Tsarist Russia. During his time in St. Petersburg, Bergh served as acting vice-consul, but eventually resigned in 1864 due to the harsh Russian winter. It was during his European sojourn that Bergh witnessed various forms of animal cruelty, which deeply affected him and instilled a sense of purpose to dedicate his life to ending such injustices.
In April 1866, Bergh founded the ASPCA, just three days after the New York State Legislature passed the first effective legislation against animal cruelty in the United States. Bergh's tireless efforts led to the passage of a law prohibiting the use of dogs to turn grills in restaurants, a common practice at the time. However, upon visiting restaurants to monitor law enforcement, Bergh discovered that many had replaced dogs with black children, prompting him to tackle the issue of child cruelty as well.
Bergh's work with the ASPCA paved the way for the formation of the New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children in 1874. Through his advocacy, Bergh raised awareness about the plight of animals and children, inspiring a new wave of social reformers. His legacy extends far beyond his remarkable achievements, as he pioneered a culture of compassion and empathy that continues to shape modern society.
Henry Bergh died on March 12, 1888, leaving behind a profound impact on American society. His unwavering commitment to protecting the vulnerable and promoting social justice has inspired generations of activists, advocates, and everyday citizens. Today, the ASPCA and MSPCC continue to carry forward Bergh's mission, a testament to the enduring power of his vision and legacy.
Born in 1785
A pioneering ornithologist and artist, famous for meticulously illustrating and documenting North American bird species in his iconic book "The Birds of America". His work remains a cornerstone of ornithology and wildlife art.
87 Years Old
A renowned war correspondent and independent politician, known for his fearless reporting from conflict zones and pioneering independent candidacy in the UK Parliament.
