John Hancock was born in Braintree, Massachusetts in 1737. He inherited wealth and became an outspoken leader against oppressive British taxation in the colonies. As tensions increased, Hancock supported the patriot cause through boycotts, political positions, and privately advocating for demonstrations like the Boston Tea Party. During the Revolutionary War, Hancock funded the army and revolutionary movement. He signed the Declaration of Independence and served as Governor of Massachusetts, demonstrating his influential role in the founding of the United States.

1. John Hancock

2. Early Life
Born on January 23, 1737 in Braintree, Mass.
Comfortable early life.
Sent to live with his aunt and uncle in Boston
upon his father’s death in 1744.
Graduated from Boston Latin School and
Harvard College.
Inherited his uncle’s estate in 1764.

3. Personality
Wore expensive clothes
Hard-working
Opinionated
Friendly and well-admired
Influence to society

4. British Tensions
Disagreed with the British taxation methods.
Outspoken leader against the Stamp Act.
Selected as one of Boston’s five “Selectmen.”
Elected to the Massachusetts House of
Representatives in 1766.

5. British Tensions cont.
Supported by the Patriots and Sam Adams.
Boycotted British Imports while the Townshend
Acts were in effect.
Accused of smuggling.
Lead a committee to remove British Troops after
the Boston Massacre.
Privately advocated the Boston Tea Party.

6. During the War
Funded the army and revolutionary cause.
Elected as President of the Provincial Congress.
Elected as a delegate of the Second Continental
Congress.
Wanted to actually fight in the war as a militia
colonel.

7. Final Years
Married Dorothy Quincy in 1775.
Elected Governor of Massachusetts in 1780.
Interested in the Vice President position.
Signed The Declaration of Independence.
Died on October 8, 1793 at age 56.