Profile of the Day: John Hancock
It’s National Handwriting Day! Established in 1977, the day is celebrated on the birthday of the man with the most iconic signature in history, John Hancock.
Image: John Hancock / Library of Congress
Born in Braintree, Massachusetts on January 23, 1737, Hancock inherited a profitable mercantile business from his uncle, which made him one of the wealthiest men in the Thirteen Colonies.
A major figure during the American Revolution, Hancock was the first to sign the Declaration of Independence. According to legend, Hancock signed his name largely and clearly so that King George III could read it without his spectacles.
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