John Jay was an American politician, statesman and envoy. He was also a Founder Father and the first Chief Justice of the United States during the years 1789-1795. Before serving as Chief of Justice, Jay spent over a year as the President of the Continental Congress.
Jay took part in the American Revolution as an ambassador to Spain and France, which helped mold United States foreign policy, and ensure peace with the United Kingdom and the First French Republic. He also wrote the Federalist Papers with Alexander Hamilton and James Madison.
Jay served as the Governor of New York State from 1795 until 1801, and led the State of New York in a fight against slavery. Twice he failed to pass laws for the liberation of all slaves in New York, but on his third attempt he succeeded, and brought emancipation for all slaves in his state before his death.