James McHenry

Date of Birth: November 16, 1753

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: May 3, 1816

Biography

James McHenry was an Irish-born American military surgeon and statesman who played a significant role in the early history of the United States. He was born on November 16, 1753, in Ballymena, County Antrim, Ireland. McHenry immigrated to Philadelphia in 1771, where he pursued medical studies under the guidance of Dr. Benjamin Rush, a prominent physician and signer of the Declaration of Independence. During the American Revolutionary War, McHenry served as a surgeon and later became an aide-de-camp to General George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette. His dedication and service earned him admiration and respect among his peers. After the war, McHenry continued his public service, representing Maryland in the Continental Congress and later at the Constitutional Convention. James McHenry’s political career reached its zenith when President George Washington appointed him as the third United States Secretary of War in 1796. He continued to serve under President John Adams until 1800. McHenry’s tenure was marked by efforts to strengthen the young nation’s military defenses and his support for the establishment of the United States Military Academy at West Point. James McHenry died on May 3, 1816, in Baltimore, Maryland. Fort McHenry, famous for its role in the War of 1812 and the inspiration for the U.S. national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” was named in his honor.

5 Interesting Facts about James McHenry

1. James McHenry was a close associate of both George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette during the American Revolutionary War.

2. He was a signer of the United States Constitution, representing Maryland at the Constitutional Convention in 1787.

3. Fort McHenry, which played a crucial role in the War of 1812, was named in his honor.

4. McHenry was instrumental in the establishment of the United States Military Academy at West Point.

5. He was one of the last surviving members of George Washington’s original cabinet.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from James McHenry

1. “The basis of our political systems is the right of the people to make and to alter their constitutions of government.”

2. “Let us then, with courage and confidence, pursue our own happiness and the good of our country.”

3. “The moment the idea is admitted into society that property is not as sacred as the laws of God, and that there is not a force of law and public justice to protect it, anarchy and tyranny commence.”

4. “The preservation of a free government requires not merely that the metes and bounds which separate each department of power be invariably maintained, but more especially that neither of them be suffered to overleap the great barrier which defends the rights of the people.”

5. “Without an unspotted character, the most splendid talents are gratuitously bestowed.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

James McHenry’s highest net worth is not well-documented, as historical figures from his era did not have their wealth recorded in the same manner as contemporary figures. However, his contributions to the nation were invaluable.