John Hancock

Definition

John Hancock was an influential American merchant and statesman who played a crucial role during the American Revolution, particularly known for his prominent signature on the Declaration of Independence. He served as the President of the Second Continental Congress and was a prominent figure in the movement towards independence from British rule, representing the sentiments of colonial resistance and economic trade during the period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. John Hancock was born on January 12, 1737, in Braintree, Massachusetts, and became a successful merchant before entering politics.
2. He was one of the first signers of the Declaration of Independence, and his bold signature has become a symbol of American freedom and defiance.
3. Hancock was known for his involvement in smuggling activities to evade British taxes, which contributed to his wealth and status among colonial merchants.
4. He served as the governor of Massachusetts after the Revolution and played a significant role in shaping state governance in the early years of American independence.
5. Hancock's legacy continues today, with his name often synonymous with signatures due to the iconic flourish he used when signing documents.

Review Questions

• How did John Hancock's actions as a merchant influence his political career during the American Revolution?
  • John Hancock's success as a merchant allowed him to accumulate significant wealth, which he used to support revolutionary activities. His involvement in smuggling was a direct response to British economic restrictions, illustrating how commerce was intertwined with resistance. This background positioned him as a leading figure in political circles, allowing him to advocate for independence effectively and eventually serve as President of the Second Continental Congress.
• Discuss the significance of Hancock's signature on the Declaration of Independence and what it represented for the colonies.
  • Hancock's signature on the Declaration of Independence was significant because it symbolized not only his commitment to American independence but also served as a rallying point for other colonists. His bold and large signature has come to represent courage and defiance against British tyranny. It also indicated his leadership role among colonial patriots, embodying the collective will to break free from oppressive rule.
• Evaluate how John Hancock's legacy has been perceived over time in American history, particularly concerning commerce and independence.
  • John Hancock's legacy has evolved into one that emphasizes both his role as a key revolutionary leader and as a symbol of entrepreneurial spirit in America. His practices in smuggling illustrate how commerce directly contributed to political change, reflecting a broader narrative of resistance against economic oppression. Over time, Hancock has become emblematic of American values such as independence and self-determination, influencing how future generations view the intersection of business and politics in shaping national identity.

Related terms

Continental Congress: A series of legislative assemblies that governed the American colonies during the Revolution, coordinating efforts against British policies and ultimately declaring independence.

Declaration of Independence:

The document adopted on July 4, 1776, declaring the thirteen American colonies free and independent from British rule, asserting their rights to self-governance.

Smuggling: The illegal trade of goods that circumvented British regulations and taxes, which many colonial merchants engaged in, including Hancock, as a form of resistance against British economic control.