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William Seward was an American politician and statesman who served as the United States Secretary of State under Presidents Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson. Born in 1801 in Florida, New York, Seward was known for his anti-slavery beliefs and advocacy for human rights. He was instrumental in negotiating the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867, earning him the nickname "Seward's Folly." Seward played a key role in shaping US foreign policy during a critical period in American history. He passed away in 1872, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to justice and diplomacy.