Isaac Sears, an American merchant, sailor, Freemason, and political figure, played a significant role in the American Revolution. Sears began his maritime career at the age of sixteen as an apprentice to a coastal vessel captain. He eventually became a privateer during the French and Indian War and commanded a vessel from 1758 until 1761, when he lost his ship. After moving to New York City, Sears became a successful merchant investing in ships that traded with the West Indies.
