John Witherspoon

Profession: Founding Father and Religious Leader

Nationality:

Biography: John Witherspoon was a Scottish-American Presbyterian minister and a Founding Father of the United States. He is best known for his influence on American education and politics, particularly as a signatory of the Declaration of Independence.

Born in Scotland, Witherspoon was a devout Presbyterian and became an ordained minister. He initially served in the Church of Scotland and became a prominent church leader. In 1768, he accepted an invitation to become the President of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University).

At Princeton, Witherspoon implemented various reforms and introduced courses in moral philosophy. He educated many future leaders of America, including James Madison, Aaron Burr, and numerous members of the Continental Congress. His tenure at Princeton helped transform the college into a renowned American institution.

Witherspoon's influence extended to American politics as well. He was a delegate from New Jersey to the Second Continental Congress, where he was a strong advocate for independence from Britain. In 1776, he signed the Declaration of Independence, becoming the only clergyman and college president to do so.

During the Revolutionary War, Witherspoon was an active supporter of the American cause, serving on over 100 committees in Congress and contributing to the war effort. His son, James Witherspoon, died in the Battle of Germantown.

After the war, Witherspoon continued to be involved in shaping the new nation. He was a strong proponent of the separation of church and state, believing in religious freedom and the independence of the American church from European influence.

Born: February 5, 1723
Birthplace: Gifford, East Lothian, Scotland
Star Sign: Aquarius

Died: November 15, 1794 (aged 71)