John Witherspoon, Minister, Educator, Signer of the Declaration of Independence

Table of Contents

• Early Life and Education in Scotland
• University of Edinburgh
• Early Career in Scotland
• Controversies and Debates in Scotland
• Move to America
• Presidency at College of New Jersey
• Involvement in American Revolution
• Role in Continental Congress
• Writings
• Later Life and Legacy

I. Early Life and Education in Scotland

• Born on February 5, 1723, in Gifford, East Lothian, Scotland
• Son of the Reverend James Alexander Witherspoon and Anne Walker
• Received early education from his father

II. University of Edinburgh

• Enrolled at the University of Edinburgh at the age of 13
• Earned Master of Arts degree in 1739
• Ordained as a Presbyterian minister in 1743

III. Early Career in Scotland

• First ministerial position in Beith, Scotland
• Later moved to Paisley, serving as a minister

IV. Controversies and Debates in Scotland

• Involved in major ecclesiastical controversies
• Known for his eloquence and strong speaking skills
• Advocated for conservative church practices

V. Move to America

• Invited to become the president of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton) in 1768
• Emigrated with his family to America

VI. Presidency at College of New Jersey

• Worked to revitalize and expand the college
• Introduced new teaching methodologies
• Known for his enthusiasm and love for America

VII. Involvement in American Revolution

• Sympathized with American colonists, opposed British control
• Active in committees of correspondence and provincial congresses
• Became a prominent figure in the revolutionary movement

VIII. Role in Continental Congress

• Served as delegate from New Jersey from 1776-1779, 1780-1782
• Signer of the Declaration of Independence
• Persuaded many delegates to vote for American independence

IX. Writings

• Authored numerous essays and sermons on religious and political topics
• Notable works include “Ecclesiastical Characteristics” and “Considerations on the Nature and Extent of the Legislative Authority of the British Parliament”
• His writings influenced both church reform and the American Revolution

X. Later Life and Legacy

• Continued his service at Princeton until his death in 1794
• Remembered for his contributions to education, the church, and the American Revolution
• His legacy lives on at Princeton University