At the end of signing a huge signature on the Declaration of Independence, John Hancock said, “There, I guess King George will be able to read that without his spectacles!” John Hancock changed the course of a war that was bound to be won by the British, and did so in a manner of elegance that could not be compared. Some would even argue that his role in the Revolutionary War was as significant as George Washington or Benjamin Franklin. Born on January 12, 1737, in what is now Quincy, Massachusetts, John Hancock was orphaned at a young age and taken in by his uncle, Thomas Hancock. A wealthy businessman and successful merchant, Thomas Hancock groomed John to one day take over his shipping business. Growing up in his uncle’s Boston mansion, Hancock was tutored for a year and then attended Boston Latin School. In his spare time, Hancock learned the fine art of handwriting, and the result of those teachings can be shown in his lavish signature on the Declaration of Independence.
After Hancock graduated the Boston Latin School in 1754, he attended Harvard College at the adolescent age of 13. At the time, Hancock was described as noble and refined, at medium height, having delicately prim hair, a charming face, and extravagant clothing. Graduating college and working in his uncle’s importing business for six years,
…show more content…
During the time, Hancock was elected and reelected for many important positions that proved how loyal and valuable he was for the defeat of the British. The support for the American Revolution Hancock showed was immense, especially when he became friends with Samuel Adams, another dominant war figure. Samuel Adams, an agitator and legislator who was a fierce patriot, boosted the patriot cause when he was seen with Hancock at events. Hancock also donated gifts to his city to gain their favor for his