John Hancock Quotes
A collection of quotes by John Hancock.
John Hancock (1737-1793) was an influential American statesman and Founding Father. Born in Braintree, Massachusetts, he quickly embarked on a successful career as a merchant and eventually became one of the wealthiest men in New England. Hancock first gained political notoriety as a vocal opponent of British taxation policies, especially the Stamp Act. As tensions escalated between the American colonies and Britain, he joined the Sons of Liberty and played a crucial role in organizing protests and boycotts.
Hancock's significance in American history is largely due to his position as the President of the Second Continental Congress, where he became renowned for his bold and flamboyant signature on the United States Declaration of Independence. His bold signing led to the popular phrase "Put your John Hancock on it," which signifies the act of signing an important document.
During the Revolutionary War, Hancock served as a respected military leader and supported the Continental Army financially. He was also a member of the Massachusetts constitutional convention and played a vital role in drafting the state's constitution, which established a government based on democratic principles.
After the war, Hancock continued to be involved in politics. He served several terms as the governor of Massachusetts, focusing on issues such as education, economic development, and trade. Despite facing criticism and controversy, John Hancock remains an iconic figure in American history, recognized for his influential role in the founding of the United States and his unwavering commitment to the pursuit of liberty and independence.