Beauty and ancestry made Margaret Maria Livingston (1783-1818) a notable early American figure. As the daughter of early American political figure Chancellor Robert R. Livingston, her life mirrors the social dynamics of the American nobility.
Early Life and Background
Margaret Maria Livingston was born into a prominent New York family on April 11, 1783. Politically and socially active Clermont Manor was her childhood home. Her prominent upbringing made her a famous figure of her time.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | April 11, 1783 |
| Death Date | March 8, 1818 |
| Parents | Robert R. Livingston and Mary Stevens |
| Family Residence | Clermont Manor, Germantown, New York |
Marriage and Family Life
July 10, 1799, Margaret Maria married her cousin Robert Livingston. The Livingstons’ eight children established their social status in New York. Her marriage was deliberate, linking important American aristocratic families.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Husband | Robert L. Livingston |
| Marriage Date | July 10, 1799 |
| Children | 8 children, including Montgomery and Cornelia |
| Notable Descendants | Elizabeth Augusta Ridgely, Robert Livingston |
Social Status and Legacy
New York’s social fabric included Margaret, a beauty of her day. Her influence spread beyond her family through Clermont Manor social events, where many significant personalities of the day gathered.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Status | Member of American aristocracy |
| Known For | Renowned beauty of early New York society |
| Cultural Impact | Social gatherings at Clermont Manor |
| Legacy | Influenced subsequent generations and social norms |
Children and Their Contributions
Margaret Maria had eight children who raised the family’s status. Their successors excelled in numerous disciplines, preserving the Livingston tradition.
| Child Name | Notable Contributions |
|---|---|
| Montgomery Livingston | Politician and landowner |
| Robert Livingston | Businessman and public servant |
| Cornelia Louisiana Livingston | Advocate for social causes |
| Adelaide Livingston Clarkson | Influential in local charities |
Noteworthy Family Members
Several important Americans were born to the Livingston family. Influential politicians and social reformers descend from the family.
| Family Member | Role/Contribution |
|---|---|
| Chancellor Robert R. Livingston | Founding Father and political leader |
| Philip Livingston | Signer of the Declaration of Independence |
| Eleanor Roosevelt | First Lady and social activist |
| George H.W. Bush | 41st President of the United States |
Connections to Historical Events
The Livingston family was involved in numerous important early American events, including the Declaration of Independence and the creation of various governments. Margaret Maria and her family influenced the nascent US through personal connections and contributions.
| Event | Family Involvement |
|---|---|
| Signing of the Declaration | Philip Livingston was a signer |
| Political Leadership | Chancellor Robert R. Livingston’s role in government |
| Social Reform Movements | Descendants involved in advocacy and reform |
FAQ
Who was Margaret Maria Livingston?
American socialite Margaret Maria Livingston, born in 1783, was famous for her beauty and family ties.
What was her family background?
She was the daughter of early American political figure Chancellor Robert R. Livingston and part of the distinguished Livingston family.
How many children did she have?
Many of Margaret Maria Livingston’s eight children were influential.
What is her legacy?
Her family influenced American politics, social reform, and community involvement.
