Statesman, lawyer, writer. Son of Thomas Hopkinson.

Well known during his life as a poet, satirist, and pamphleteer. His correspondence with Franklin touches on political and scientific as well as personal matters.

Studied and practiced law in Pennsylvania (1757-66). Spent a year in England (1767-68) and then returned to America, where he worked as a merchant, customs agent, and lawyer.

Elected to the Continental Congress (1776). Chairman of the Continental Navy Board (1776-78). Treasurer of loans (1778-81). Pennsylvania judge of admiralty (1779-89). Member of the Library Company of Philadelphia and of the American Philosophical Society.

Born in Philadelphia. Married in 1768 to Ann Borden.