John Hancock memorial

John Hancock (January 23, 1736/37 - October 8, 1793) was a well-known Patriot during the American Revolutionary War. He may be best known for his large signature on the Declaration of Independence, but Hancock was much more influential as a close protégé of Samuel Adams. Hancock was also a wealthy merchant and smuggler and provided much needed capital and leadership in Boston for the cause of Liberty.

Hancock would serve as the influential president of the Continental Congress held in Philadelphia in 1775.