George Childress

Profession: Author of the Texas Declaration of Independence

Nationality:

Biography: George Campbell Childress was an American lawyer and politician, notable for his role as the principal author of the Texas Declaration of Independence. Childress was born in Nashville, Tennessee, and became a prominent figure in the events that led to the creation of the Republic of Texas.

Childress then moved to Missouri and then to Texas in 1836, where he quickly became involved in the Texian movement for independence from Mexico. His legal background and eloquence allowed him to make a significant contribution to the cause.

As a delegate from Milam to the Convention of 1836 held at Washington-on-the-Brazos, Childress was appointed chairman of the committee responsible for drafting the declaration. This document echoed the sentiments of the United States Declaration of Independence and articulated the grievances of the Texian settlers against the government of Mexican President Antonio López de Santa Anna, particularly the abrogation of the Constitution of 1824.

The Texas Declaration of Independence was signed on March 2, 1836, marking the formal declaration of independence of the Republic of Texas from Mexico. Childress's essential role in drafting the document earned him a lasting place in Texan history.

Despite the success of the Texas Revolution, Childress's later life was marred by financial difficulties and a struggle to support his family. He attempted to establish a law practice and engage in business ventures, but these efforts were largely unsuccessful. Despairing, he took his own life in 1841.

Born: January 8, 1804
Birthplace: Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Star Sign: Capricorn

Died: October 6, 1841 (aged 37)
Cause of Death: Suicide