Politician, merchant.

One of the wealthiest men in New England, he became well known after the British seized one of his ships and filed suit against him for alleged wine smuggling.

Prominent in bringing the Hutchinson letters to the press. Delegate to the Continental Congress, which he served as president (1775-77). Signer of the Declaration of Independence. Sought appointment as commander-in-chief of the Continental army in place of Washington.

Governor of Massachusetts (1780-85, 1786-93).

Born in Braintree, Massachusetts. Nephew of Thomas Hancock. Married in 1775 to Dorothy Quincy.