Paul Cuffee was an African American businessman and abolitionist born in 1759 in Massachusetts. He was the son of a freed African slave and a Native American mother. Cuffee became a successful shipbuilder and merchant, known for his innovative approach to trade and shipping. In addition to his business ventures, Cuffee was a strong advocate for the rights of African Americans. He supported the idea of resettling free Black people to Africa, particularly Sierra Leone, where he helped establish a colony. Cuffee's efforts contributed to the early movements for African American self-determination and social justice.