John Hancock

John Hancock was a major political leader in the era of the American Revolution, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and president of the Continental Congress.

Political Figure

January 12, 1737

Capricorn

October 08, 1793

56

Braintree, Massachusetts

John Hancock was a prominent statesman and played a vital role in the American Revolution. He is best known for being the first to sign the Declaration of Independence in 1776, and his name has become synonymous with “signature” in the United States due to his large, bold signature on the document. In addition to his political contributions, Hancock was a successful businessman, philanthropist, and served as the president of the Second Continental Congress and the governor of Massachusetts. He also played a part in the development of the US Constitution as a delegate to the Constitutional Convention.

Hancock’s other notable achievements include being the first person to print his name on a United States coin, with his signature required by law to be large on all of his coins. He was also involved in the Boston Tea Party incident, where he encouraged the crowd with a famous statement: “Let every man do what is right in his own eyes.” Before entering politics, Hancock inherited Boston’s leading mercantile firm and was a wealthy merchant.

Although he faced financial difficulties due to his extravagant lifestyle and fondness for fine clothing, John Hancock remained an influential figure in American politics and business until his death in 1793. His contributions to the founding of the United States, including his iconic signature on the Declaration of Independence, continue to be celebrated and remembered today.