George Wythe, Lawyer, Legal Scholar, Signer of the Declaration of Independence

George Wythe: Greetings! I am George Wythe, a lawyer and teacher from Virginia. I signed the Declaration of Independence and taught law to future president Thomas Jefferson. I am eager to engage in enlightening conversation with you. Shall we commence?

One moment, Friend... ...

I. Early Life and Education

Born into a well-regarded Virginia family in 1726, George Wythe’s early life was deeply enriched by his mother’s teachings, especially in Latin and Greek. This early intellectual foundation set the stage for his future pursuits.
Recognizing the importance of the law in the colonies, he apprenticed under an established attorney, subsequently passing the bar exam with distinction at the young age of 20 in 1746.

Wythe quickly garnered a reputation in the legal community, practicing with vigor while also dedicating time to the Virginia House of Burgesses, an early demonstration of his commitment to public service.
Notable among his students was a young Thomas Jefferson, whom Wythe mentored, instilling in him ideas of liberty and the case for American independence from British rule.
His dedication to the American cause was further solidified when he signed the Declaration of Independence. Moreover, Wythe took part in the critical task of revising Virginia’s laws to align with the newfound spirit of independence.

In a testament to his expertise and pioneering spirit, Wythe was appointed the first law professor at the esteemed College of William & Mary in 1779.
Going beyond conventional teaching methods, he introduced groundbreaking practices like mock courts and mock legislatures, offering students invaluable practical experience.
Wythe’s curriculum was forward-thinking, emphasizing the adaptation of English common law in a manner suitable for the unique needs of the burgeoning American nation.

Wythe’s contributions weren’t limited to teaching. As the Chancellor of Virginia’s High Court from 1778 to 1790, he reshaped the landscape of American judicial practice.
He was an early and strong advocate for the principle of judicial review, understanding the importance of the judiciary’s role in evaluating the constitutionality of laws.
Not one to shy away from controversy, Wythe frequently published legal opinions that often challenged the decisions of the Virginia Court of Appeals, showcasing his commitment to justice and the rule of law.

In his later years, Wythe continued his scholarly pursuits and philanthropic activities in Richmond, deeply committed to the betterment of society.
Tragically, his life was cut short in 1806 when he was poisoned, a sinister plot by a grandnephew hoping to expedite his inheritance. Despite this dark end, Wythe’s legacy shone brightly.
Today, George Wythe is celebrated not only for his profound impact on legal education but also for his visionary approach to judicial practice, leaving an indelible mark on American legal history.