John Dickinson, Overlooked Founding Father, Recognized for Abolitionist and Rights Advocacy
John Dickinson, a Founding Father born in 1732, is being re-evaluated for his significant contributions to early American ideals, despite his controversial refusal to sign the Declaration of Independence. Dickinson, a statesman and lawyer, served in the Revolutionary War, was the principal writer of the Articles of Confederation, and supported the U.S. Constitution. Beyond his political roles, he was a fervent abolitionist, helping pass one of Pennsylvania's first anti-slavery laws in 1780 and freeing all his slaves by 1786, making him the only founder to do so during his lifetime. According to historian Jane Calvert, Dickinson also championed the rights of Native Americans, advocating for their property rights and dignified treatment, and defended freedom of speech, religious liberty for women, and education for all children, including Black children. His opposition to immediate independence stemmed from concerns about the colonies' unpreparedness for war, not a lack of patriotism, as he later fought for ...