John Hancock

John Hancock was born in Quincy, Massachusetts on January 12 1737. He had a good education, graduating from Harvard College as a merchant in 1754. When his parents died, he was adopted by his uncle Thomas who empoleyed him at his home. When his uncle did, he inherited his business as well as a good fortune which helped him survive during the French and Indian War. As said before, to recuperate money the Parliament started imposing taxes to the colonies. Hancock was one of the patriot leaders and was later appointed to represent Boston in the House of Representatives. He also called for town meetings to protest against other acts.

He started to become more involved in revolutionary politics, supporting for independence from Britain. He also became a member of the stamp act congress. He also had some disputes with Massachusetts governor Thomas Gage, as he had been appointed by the Parliament. Thanks to his big influence in the colonies he was appointed delegate for the continental congress, though before he arrived there, he was appointed president of that congress. On April 14, 1775, Gage received a letter from the Parliament ordering him to arrest revolutionary men. Gage sent military troops, which would spark the revolutionary war. Though later Gage retracted saying he wouldn't gain anything by arresting them, as others will only take their place.

During all this mess, Hancock made way to the Continental Congress in Philadelphia. He was president during one of the darkest time of the war, as British had took over some places. He was president when the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776. He is remembered as his signature was the biggest one, supposedly so that King George would see it without his glasses.

On October 1777 he asked to resigned and was later reelected for the House of Representatives. On October 1680 he was elected Governor of Massachusetts, after he had successfully commanded 6000 soldiers through the war. He resigned in 1885 stating it was because of his health.

John Hancock died October 8, 1793.