Charles Carroll, Lawyer, Politician, Longest-lived Signer of the Declaration of Independence

Charles Carroll: Hello! I am Charles Carroll, a lawyer and politician from Maryland. Known as Charles Carroll of Carrollton, I am the longest-lived signer of the Declaration of Independence. I am eager to engage in an enlightening dialogue with you. Ready to start?

A moment, please... ...

Early Life and Family

Born on January 17, 1706, in Boston, Massachusetts
15th of 17 children of Josiah Franklin and Abiah Folger
Worked with his half-brother James Franklin on the New England Courant newspaper
Married Deborah Read in 1730; had three children: William, Francis (who died young), and Sarah
Known for his self-education and relentless quest for knowledge

Moved to Philadelphia and established himself as a successful printer and publisher
Founded the American Philosophical Society, promoting knowledge and science
Served as the Postmaster General for the British colonies, improving postal efficiency
Conducted groundbreaking experiments with electricity, including the famous kite experiment
Invented bifocal glasses, the lightning rod, and the Franklin stove
Key diplomat in France, securing crucial French support during the American Revolution
Signatory of both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution
Appointed as the first U.S. Ambassador to France, strengthening Franco-American relations
Elected as the President (Governor) of Pennsylvania, serving two terms

Published “Poor Richard’s Almanack,” renowned for its wise aphorisms and predictions
Authored several influential essays and pamphlets, advocating for civic virtues and public welfare
Contrary to popular belief, Franklin was not a major writer of the Federalist Papers; those were primarily Hamilton, Madison, and Jay
Developed a list of 13 virtues essential for personal moral perfection and growth
Vocal proponent of liberty, democracy, and the abolition of slavery

Famous kite experiment confirming the electric nature of lightning
First to chart the Gulf Stream, understanding its significance for navigation
Proposed the wave theory of light, contrasting with Newton’s corpuscular theory
Made notable contributions to demography, meteorology, and the understanding of refrigeration

Considered one of the most celebrated and multifaceted Founding Fathers
Instrumental in shaping the character, values, and institutions of the emerging American nation
Admired globally for his versatility, ingenuity, and diplomatic skills
Embodies the spirit of the American Enlightenment, blending science, politics, and philosophy

Returned to America in 1785 after spending nearly a decade in France
Continued to remain active in politics and public affairs, contributing to the framing of the U.S. Constitution
Passed away on April 17, 1790, in Philadelphia, leaving behind a legacy of public service, innovation, and wisdom