John Dickinson

Born in 1732, he was a lawyer, writer, and statesman whose political essays and pamphlets made him one of the most widely read American patriots of his time. He earned the nickname “Penman of the Revolution” for his persuasive writing, especially in defense of colonial rights.

He served in the Stamp Act Congress, the Continental Congress, and later as president of both Delaware and Pennsylvania. Although he was more cautious than some of his contemporaries and did not sign the Declaration of Independence, he played a major part in the founding era and signed the United States Constitution in 1787.

He died in 1808, leaving behind a reputation for thoughtful public service, principled debate, and clear political writing that influenced the early republic.