Davis, Andrew Jackson

Davis, Andrew Jackson, 1826–1910, American spiritualist, b. Blooming Grove, N.Y. He became a professional clairvoyant, known as the “Poughkeepsie Seer,” after being mesmerized in 1843. He was popular among followers of abolitionist, feminist, and temperance movements. Influenced by the ideas of Swedish philosopher Emmanuel Swedenborg, Davis was one of the first American spiritualists to envision the potential of spiritual naturalism to achieve social reform. His writings include The Principle of Nature (1847) and The Harmonial Man (1853).

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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