John Dickinson

Early Life and Education

John Dickinson was one of the key players in the founding of the United States. He was a leader of the American Revolution and drafted the Articles of Confederation, which was the first constitution of the United States.

Dickinson was born in Maryland to a wealthy family. His father, Samuel Dickinson, was a prosperous tobacco planter and a lawyer who wanted his son to receive the best education possible. The family relocated to Kent County, Delaware, in 1740, where John Dickinson would form a deep connection with the place.

Legal Career

John’s father spared no expense in his education, providing him with the best tutors, including William Killen, who later became the first Chancellor for Delaware. He studied law in London and Philadelphia and became one of the top lawyers in Delaware and Pennsylvania. Despite being a prominent lawyer, Dickinson made a name for himself as a political writer. He represented Pennsylvania in the Stamp Act Congress in 1765 and drafted the declaration of rights and grievances.

Opposition to British Policies

Dickinson strongly opposed the Stamp Act of 1765 and wrote a series of essays called “Letters from a Farmer in Pennsylvania,” which were widely praised by American patriots. These letters, published in several colonial newspapers, denounced the Townshend Acts and the establishment of the American Board of Customs Commissioners in Boston. He argued that Parliament had no right to tax the colonies without consent and urged peaceful resistance to British policies.

Continental Congress Participation

Dickinson was a delegate to the First and Second Continental Congresses, where he advocated for peaceful reconciliation with Britain. He also drafted the Olive Branch Petition, which was rejected by King George III. He wrote the first draft of the Declaration of Independence but refused to sign it in hopes of achieving peaceful reconciliation with the British.

Contributions to the Constitution

Dickinson also helped draft the Articles of Confederation and signed them on behalf of Delaware. He later became President of Delaware and Pennsylvania and played a significant role in ratifying the U.S. Constitution in both states.

Legacy and Death

Dickinson passed away in 1808 at his estate in Delaware. His contributions to the founding of the United States and his advocacy for peaceful reconciliation have left a lasting legacy in American history.