The Founding Fathers
The term "Founding Fathers" refers to the leaders who declared independence, fought the Revolution, and created the Constitution. Here are the most influential.
George Washington (1732-1799)
"First in war, first in peace, first in the hearts of his countrymen."
- Commander of the Continental Army
- Presided over Constitutional Convention
- First President (1789-1797)
- Voluntarily left power, setting precedent
His character held the fragile nation together.
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790)
The oldest Founder and most famous American in the world.
- Printer, scientist, inventor, diplomat
- Helped draft Declaration of Independence
- Secured French alliance (crucial to victory)
- Helped negotiate peace treaty
His wit and wisdom embodied American practicality.
Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826)
Author of the Declaration of Independence.
- Governor of Virginia
- Secretary of State
- Vice President, then President (1801-1809)
- Louisiana Purchase doubled America's size
Contradictions defined him: champion of liberty who enslaved people.
John Adams (1735-1826)
"The Atlas of American Independence."
- Championed independence in Continental Congress
- Diplomat in Europe
- First Vice President, second President
Irascible but principled, he sacrificed popularity for conviction.
James Madison (1751-1836)
"Father of the Constitution."
- Primary author of the Constitution
- Co-authored Federalist Papers
- Secretary of State
- Fourth President (1809-1817)
Small in stature, giant in intellect.
Alexander Hamilton (1755-1804)
Immigrant from the Caribbean who shaped American finance.
- Washington's aide-de-camp
- First Treasury Secretary
- Created national bank, tax system, public credit
- Killed in duel with Aaron Burr
His vision of industrial America eventually prevailed.
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