John Hancock

Date of Birth: January 23, 1737

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: October 8, 1793

Biography

John Hancock (January 23, 1737 – October 8, 1793) was a prominent American statesman and politician who played a critical role during the American Revolution. He is perhaps most famous for his bold signature on the Declaration of Independence, where he served as the President of the Second Continental Congress. Hancock’s early life was marked by a successful career in business, having inherited a substantial mercantile business from his uncle. This wealth allowed him to support various revolutionary causes financially. He later served as the first and third Governor of Massachusetts, playing a pivotal role in the state’s early political landscape.

5 Interesting Facts about John Hancock

1. John Hancock’s signature on the Declaration of Independence is the largest, leading to the term “John Hancock” becoming synonymous with a person’s signature.

2. He was the wealthiest man in New England during his time, largely due to the inheritance of his uncle’s mercantile business.

3. Hancock was a major financier of the American Revolution, using his wealth to support the colonial cause.

4. He was elected as the first Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and served multiple terms.

5. John Hancock was an ardent supporter of the colonial militia and played a significant role in organizing the Boston Tea Party.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Hancock

1. “The greatest ability in business is to get along with others and to influence their actions.”

2. “There, I guess King George will be able to read that without his spectacles.”

3. “Resistance to tyranny becomes the Christian and social duty of each individual.”

4. “Let us humbly commit our righteous cause to the great Lord of the Universe.”

5. “I have the most animating confidence that the present noble struggle for liberty will terminate gloriously for America.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

John Hancock was one of the wealthiest men in the colonies, with an estimated net worth of $350,000 at the time, which would be equivalent to several hundred million dollars today.

Children

John Hancock had two children with his wife, Dorothy Quincy Hancock: 1. Lydia Henchman Hancock (1776–1777) – died in infancy. 2. John George Washington Hancock (1778–1787) – tragically died in a skating accident at the age of 9.