Who was the founder of first troupe blackface minstrel tradition?

The founder of the first troupe of blackface minstrel tradition was Thomas "Daddy" Rice. He was born in New York City in 1808. Rice was a stage performer who developed the character of "Jim Crow," a stereotypical African American character. He performed in blackface, with exaggerated facial features and gestures, and sang and danced to music that mimicked African music. Rice's performances were very popular, and he toured the United States and Europe. He is credited with popularizing the blackface minstrel tradition, which became a popular form of entertainment in the 19th century.