The American Founding Fathers and 10 Fascinating Facts About Them

Some iconic leaders in the history have played significant roles in setting up the foundation of the United States of America. The contributions of these founding fathers to the foundation of the democracy of the United States are both enduring and profound.

However, the world only knows about their political achievements. We believe that there is much more to these leaders. Today, we bring forward some of the lesser-known aspects of the lives of these American founding fathers.

American Founding Fathers and Fascinating Facts About Them

Here are the 10 fascinating aspects about the Founding Fathers of the United States that you might not know about.

George Washington and his reluctance

The very first President of the United States is George Washington. However, not many know that he was initially reluctant to accept the post of the President. Following his leadership at the Continental Ar,y to victory in the Revolutionary War, the man retired to his plantation at Mount Vernon.

His sense of duty towards the nation that needed his help eventually convinced him to accept the presidency. The man served two terms.

The death of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson

The two important architects of the American independence, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson met a remarkable yet sad coincidence. Both of them passed away on the very same day, that is on July 4 in the year 1826. It is also important to note that the day was also the 50th anniversary of Declaration of Independence. Even after their political differences, the two men developed immense mutual respect in the later part of their lives. Moreover, their death on such an important date is often referred to as a symbolic end to an era.

Benjamin Franklin and his invention

The popular statesman and diplomat, Benjamin Franklin, was also a successful inventor. He invented many things, and some of his inventions include the bifocal glasses, the lightning rod, the Franklin stove, and more. However, Franklin did not patent his invention ever, with a belief that his inventions should be shared freely for greater good.

John Adams and how he defended the British Soldiers

A staunch advocate for the American independence, John Adams showcased his strong commitment to justice when he affirmed to defend the British soldiers who were accused of murder following the Boston Massacre in the year 1770. Even after the unpopularity of the case, Adams deeply believed in the right to a fair trial. He managed to argue that the British soldiers acted in self-defense. His defense was indeed controversial, but he still demonstrated his dedication to the principles of justice and law, even in cases when it meant defending the enemy.

Alexander Hamilton and his place of birth

One of the most influential Founding Fathers of America, Alexander Hamilton, was actually not born in America. Yes, Alexander Hamilton was born on the island of Nevis in the Caribbean. The humble beginnings of Hamilton as an orphaned immigrant did not prove to be a permanent blockage in his journey towards success. He successfully rose to become an important figure in the creation of the financial system in the United States and the very first Secretary of the Treasury.

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The signature of John Hancock

The signature of John Hancock is famous, as it is large and bold on the Declaration of Independence. Legend says that Hancock wished King George III to be able to read Hancock's name without requiring glasses. The bold signature became iconic, so much so, that John Hancock is presently synonymous with the term "signature" in the American parlance.

Satirical works of Benjamin Franklin

Not many know this fact, but Benjamin Franklin was also a prolific writer, apart from being a political figure. His work was popular for the satire and wit. The sharp wit, intellectual sayings, and great humor of the political figure had always helped in shaping the American culture. For instance, his saying "A penny saved is penny earned", is widely quoted still today.

George Washington and the White House

George Washington was the one who chose the site for the White House and looked after its construction. However, he never resided in the White House. George Washington served as the President of the United States in the temporary capitols of Philadelphia and New York. The construction of the White House finished in 1800, and at that time, John Adams was serving his presidency. John Adams became the very first president to reside in the White House.

James Madison- a lifelong scholar

Despite the political career, James Madison remained a lifelong scholar. The man was deeply interested in fields of law, government, and philosophy. He spent a majority of his life studying in these subjects. The extensive knowledge earned by the man significantly influenced his work on the Constitution of the United States. This also made him earn the title of the "Father of the Constitution." The intellectual rigor proved to be critical in shaping the republic.

These Founding Fathers are popular for their political careers, but they were also individuals with a personality outside of their office. The fascinating facts relating to the lives of these founding fathers offered a glimpse into the human aspect of the men shaping the United States.

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