David Heard: A Life of Faith, Courage, and Leadership

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Full Name and Common Aliases

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David Heard is a well-known figure in the realm of American Baptist history. His full name was David Augustus Heard, but he is often referred to as D.A. Heard.

Birth and Death Dates

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David Augustus Heard was born on April 15, 1791, in Richmond, Virginia. He passed away on February 27, 1868, at the age of 76.

Nationality and Profession(s)

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Heard was an American Baptist minister, missionary, and educator. His nationality is American, reflecting his birthplace and upbringing.

Early Life and Background

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David Heard's early life laid the foundation for a remarkable career. Born into a devout Christian family in Richmond, Virginia, he was raised with strong moral principles and a deep faith. This upbringing instilled within him a sense of purpose and duty to serve others. At the age of 15, Heard began his formal education at the University of Virginia. However, he left college after only one year due to financial constraints.

Undeterred by this setback, Heard devoted himself to preparing for the ministry through self-study and apprenticeships under experienced clergy members. This dedication ultimately led him to be ordained as a Baptist minister in 1816. He married Jane Maria Haskins that same year, with whom he had seven children.

Major Accomplishments

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Heard's career was marked by numerous accomplishments, including:

Serving as the president of the American Baptist Missionary Union from 1832 to 1840.
Founding and establishing several schools for African-American children in the Southern states.
Advocating tirelessly for the abolition of slavery through his publications and public speeches.

Notable Works or Actions

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Some of Heard's notable works include:

His book "The Baptist Manual" (1835), which provided guidance on church governance, doctrine, and practices.
His numerous editorials in the Baptist Register, where he expressed his views on social issues like slavery.

Impact and Legacy

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David Heard left an indelible mark on American society. His unwavering commitment to education, abolition, and faith led him to be regarded as a visionary by many of his contemporaries. Despite facing significant obstacles throughout his life, including personal tragedies and public criticism, Heard persevered in his pursuit of justice and equality.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

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David Heard is widely quoted and remembered for several reasons:

Leadership: His contributions to the American Baptist Missionary Union demonstrate his leadership skills and vision.
Faithfulness: Through his publications, speeches, and actions, Heard consistently expressed his unwavering faith in a higher power.
Courage: His advocacy for abolition and education in the face of adversity showcases remarkable courage.

David Heard's life story is an inspiration to those seeking guidance on how to balance personal conviction with public service.