John Dickinson was born on November 2, 1732, in Maryland. He was the second child of Samuel Dickinson, a wealthy tobacco farmer, and his wife Mary Cadwalader. John inherited five farms in Maryland from his father and was groomed to take over the family business. He attended a local Quaker school before studying law in London at the Middle Temple.
Upon returning to America, Dickinson became involved in politics. He was elected to the Delaware Assembly in 1760 and quickly rose to prominence. Dickinson was a strong advocate for colonial rights and played a key role in drafting the Declaration of Rights and Grievances in 1765. He represented Delaware at the Continental Congress in 1774 and was a leading voice in favor of reconciliation with Great Britain.
When it became clear that war was inevitable, Dickinson reluctantly joined the militia and helped prepare the first draft of the Articles of Confederation in 1776. Despite his reservations about declaring independence, Dickinson signed the Declaration of Independence but abstained from voting in favor.
In 1781, Dickinson was elected as the President of Delaware, serving until 1783. He then served as President of Pennsylvania from 1782 to 1785. In his later years, Dickinson focused on his legal practice and agricultural pursuits. He was married twice, first to Judith Troth in 1760, with whom he had nine children. After her death, he married Mary Norris in 1770, with whom he had five children.
John Dickinson passed away on February 14, 1808, leaving behind a legacy as a respected lawyer and politician. He was known for his principled stance on colonial rights and his efforts to promote unity among the states. Dickinson's contributions to American history continue to be remembered and celebrated today.