Merchant, patriot and politician.

First elected to the South Carolina assembly in 1757, Gadsden soon became an advocate of colonial rights. Served in the Continental Congress (1774-76). Brigadier general in the Continental army.

Following the war, returned to the South Carolina assembly and fought against excessive persecution of former Loyalists.

Born in Charleston, South Carolina. Married in 1746 to Jane Godfrey; in 1755 to Mary Hasell; in 1776 to Anne Wragg.