Members of the Committee that Drafted the Declaration of Independence
The Committee of Five was appointed by the Continental Congress in 1776 to draft the Declaration of Independence. This committee consisted of John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston. Each member brought unique perspectives and contributions to the process, shaping one of the most significant documents in American history.
In the article below, World History Edu presents an in-depth look at the history and major facts about each member:
Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826)
Thomas Jefferson was the principal author, whose eloquent writing and philosophical grounding in Enlightenment principles gave the Declaration its powerful articulation of natural rights and the justification for independence. Image: A portrait of Jefferson in 1800.
Early Life and Education: Thomas Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743, in Shadwell, Virginia. He was educated at the College of William & Mary, where he developed an interest in law, science, and philosophy.
Political Career: Jefferson began his political career in the Virginia House of Burgesses. He was a strong advocate for colonial rights and became known for his eloquent writing. In 1775, he joined the Continental Congress and quickly emerged as a leading voice for independence.
Role in Drafting the Declaration: Jefferson was chosen by the Committee of Five to draft the Declaration of Independence because of his skillful writing. He produced the first draft, which was then reviewed and edited by the committee and Congress. His draft articulated the colonies’ grievances against King George III and laid out the philosophical foundation for independence, emphasizing natural rights and the idea that government derives its power from the consent of the governed.
Later Career and Legacy: Jefferson served as the third President of the United States from 1801 to 1809. His presidency is noted for the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. He also founded the University of Virginia. Jefferson’s influence on American political thought and his contributions to the principles of liberty and democracy are profound. He died on July 4, 1826, the 50th anniversary of the Declaration’s adoption.
John Adams (1735-1826)
John Adams was the passionate advocate for independence who played a critical role in ensuring the Declaration’s adoption. His extensive political career, including his presidency, reflected his commitment to the principles of justice and strong federal governance. Image: A portrait of Adams.
Early Life and Education: John Adams was born on October 30, 1735, in Braintree, Massachusetts. He graduated from Harvard College in 1755 and became a lawyer. Adams was known for his intellectual rigor and dedication to principles of justice and liberty.
Political Career: Adams was a leading advocate for independence in the Continental Congress. He played a crucial role in persuading Congress to adopt the Declaration of Independence. Prior to this, he had defended British soldiers involved in the Boston Massacre, demonstrating his commitment to fair trial and justice, regardless of public sentiment.
Role in Drafting the Declaration: Adams was a key member of the Committee of Five and was instrumental in selecting Jefferson to write the initial draft of the Declaration. He reviewed and contributed to the editing process, ensuring that the document effectively communicated the colonies’ justification for independence.
Later Career and Legacy: Adams served as the first Vice President and the second President of the United States. His presidency was marked by foreign policy challenges, including the Quasi-War with France. Adams’s legacy includes his dedication to the rule of law and his efforts to build a strong federal government. He died on July 4, 1826, the same day as Jefferson.
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790)
Benjamin Franklin provided essential edits and diplomatic weight to the drafting process. His scientific achievements and political acumen helped secure French support for the Revolutionary War, significantly aiding the American cause. Image: A 1778 portrait of Franklin.
Early Life and Education: Benjamin Franklin was born on January 17, 1706, in Boston, Massachusetts. He was largely self-educated, becoming a successful printer, scientist, inventor, and writer. Franklin’s scientific achievements and inventions, such as the lightning rod and bifocal glasses, brought him international fame.
Political Career: Franklin was a prominent figure in the American Enlightenment and an influential diplomat. He represented Pennsylvania at the Continental Congress and played a crucial role in securing French support for the American Revolution.
Role in Drafting the Declaration: Franklin’s wisdom and experience were invaluable to the Committee of Five. He provided critical edits to Jefferson’s draft, helping to refine the language and strengthen the arguments for independence. His diplomatic skills and reputation also helped to lend credibility to the cause.
Later Career and Legacy: Franklin continued to serve the United States as a diplomat, negotiating the Treaty of Paris, which ended the Revolutionary War. He also attended the Constitutional Convention in 1787, contributing to the framing of the Constitution. Franklin’s legacy includes his contributions to science, politics, and civic life. He died on April 17, 1790.
Roger Sherman (1721-1793)
Early Life and Education: Roger Sherman was born on April 19, 1721, in Newton, Massachusetts. He had little formal education but was self-taught in law, becoming a successful lawyer and politician.
Political Career: Sherman was an influential figure in Connecticut politics and served in both the Continental Congress and the Constitutional Convention. He was the only person to sign all four major American founding documents: the Continental Association, the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the Constitution.
Role in Drafting the Declaration: As a member of the Committee of Five, Sherman played a supportive role in the drafting process. While he did not make major contributions to the text, his presence and approval were significant for the document’s acceptance and legitimacy.
Later Career and Legacy: Sherman continued to play a vital role in shaping the new nation. He was a key advocate for the Connecticut Compromise during the Constitutional Convention, which helped to shape the structure of Congress. Sherman’s legacy is marked by his pragmatic approach to governance and his dedication to the American cause. He died on July 23, 1793.
Roger Sherman was the pragmatic statesman whose presence on the Committee lent credibility and support. His subsequent contributions to the Constitution and the Connecticut Compromise highlighted his importance in shaping American governance. Image: A portrait of Sherman.
Robert R. Livingston (1746-1813)
Robert R. Livingston contributed to the early stages of the Declaration’s drafting and later played a crucial role in the Louisiana Purchase, demonstrating his diplomatic skill and influence in expanding the nation. Image: Portrait of Livingston.
Early Life and Education: Robert R. Livingston was born on November 27, 1746, in New York City. He graduated from King’s College (now Columbia University) in 1765 and became a lawyer.
Political Career: Livingston held various political positions, including serving as the Chancellor of New York, the highest judicial office in the state. He was an influential figure in New York politics and a strong advocate for independence.
Role in Drafting the Declaration: Livingston was a member of the Committee of Five but was unable to sign the final document because he was recalled to New York before the Declaration was adopted. However, his input during the drafting process was valuable, and his support helped to solidify the push for independence.
Later Career and Legacy: Livingston continued to have a significant impact on American history. He administered the presidential oath of office to George Washington in 1789. As Minister to France, he played a crucial role in negotiating the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which doubled the size of the United States. Livingston’s contributions to the early republic and his diplomatic successes are key aspects of his legacy. He died on February 26, 1813.
The unique background, skills, and political experiences of the Committee of Five contributed to the creation of a document that articulated the colonies’ desire for independence and laid the philosophical groundwork for the new nation. Image: A painting, by John Trumbull, depicting the members of the Committee of Five.
