China: Elias Hasket Derby, Boston privateer, shipping magnate and opium trader (1739-1799).

Elias Hasket Derby (August 16, 1739 — September 8, 1799) was among the wealthiest and most celebrated of post-Revolutionary merchants in Salem, Massachusetts, and owner of the Grand Turk, the first New England vessel to trade directly with China.

Derby is often referred to as 'King Derby' or as America's first millionaire. However, it is improbable that Elias Hasket Derby was known as King Derby during his lifetime. Nathaniel Hawthorne bestowed the title on him in 'The Scarlet Letter' (p. 4). As for being America's first millionaire, Derby was but one of a number of highly successful Massachusetts merchants of the period.

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Supplier: CPA Media Co. Ltd.

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Pictures From History

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