Roger Sherman
Roger Sherman: A Founding Father's Enduring Legacy
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Roger Sherman was born on April 19, 1721, in Newton, Massachusetts, to William and Mary Sherman. He is often referred to as the "Last of the Signers" due to his role in signing all four major documents of the American Revolution: the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, the Treaty of Paris, and the United States Constitution.
Birth and Death Dates
April 19, 1721 – July 23, 1793
Nationality and Profession(s)
American lawyer, jurist, and politician
Sherman's life was marked by a strong commitment to public service. He began his career as a lawyer in Connecticut, later becoming involved in politics and ultimately serving as a delegate to the Continental Congress.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in rural Massachusetts, Sherman received a modest education, attending local schools before being apprenticed to a blacksmith at the age of 11. However, he soon turned to law, studying under the guidance of a local judge and eventually earning admission to the Connecticut bar in 1743.
Major Accomplishments
Sherman's most notable contributions came during the American Revolution. He was instrumental in drafting the Declaration of Independence, arguing for its adoption before the Continental Congress on June 7, 1776. Additionally, he played a key role in shaping the United States Constitution, serving as a delegate to both the Constitutional Convention and the ratification conventions.
Notable Works or Actions
Declaration of Independence: Sherman was one of the five drafters of this foundational document.
United States Constitution: He helped shape the Constitution through his work on the Committee of Style, which produced the final version of the document.
* Treaty of Paris: Sherman signed this treaty in 1783, formally ending the American Revolutionary War and recognizing U.S. independence from Great Britain.
Impact and Legacy
Roger Sherman's impact on American history is immense. As a skilled lawyer and politician, he helped shape the country's foundational documents and contributed to its growth as a nation. His legacy extends beyond his own time, with many regarding him as one of the most important Founding Fathers.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Sherman's quotes offer valuable insights into his thoughts on government, law, and civic responsibility. He was known for his commitment to liberty and justice, often emphasizing the importance of individual rights and freedoms. His words continue to inspire citizens today, serving as a reminder of the principles that have guided American society since its inception.
Throughout his life, Roger Sherman demonstrated a deep commitment to public service and civic engagement. As one of the most influential Founding Fathers, he left an indelible mark on American history.
Quotes by Roger Sherman
Sad will be the day when the American people forget their traditions and their history, and so longer remember that the country they love, the institutions they cherish, and the freedom they hope to preserve, were born from the throes of armed resistance to tyranny, and nursed in the rugged arms of fearless men.
If the president alone was vested with the power of appointing all officers, and was left to select a council for himself, he would be liable to be deceived by flatterers and pretenders to patriotism.
You are further to declare that we hold sacred the rights of conscience, and may promise to the whole people, solemnly in our name, the free and undisturbed exercise of their religion. And...that all civil rights and the right to hold office were to be extended to persons of any Christian denomination.
The question is, not what rights naturally belong to man, but how they may be most equally and effectually guarded in society.
I believe that there is one only living and true God, existing in three persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. . . . that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are a revelation from God. . . . that God did send His own Son to become man, die in the room and stead of sinners, and thus to lay a foundation for the offer of pardon and salvation to all mankind so as all may be saved who are willing to accept the Gospel offer.
I believe that the souls of believers are at their death made perfectly holy, and immediately taken to glory: that at the end of this world there will be a resurrection of the dead, and a final judgement of all mankind, when the righteous shall be publicly acquitted by Christ the Judge and admitted to everlasting life and glory, and the wicked be sentenced to everlasting punishment.
I believe a visible church to be a congregation of those who make a credible profession of their faith in Christ, and obedience to him, joined by the bond of the covenant.