Who Signed The Articles Of Confederation? Unveiling The Founding Signatories

The Articles of Confederation, which marked the United States’ initial attempt at establishing a constitutional framework, were formally adopted by the Continental Congress on November 15, 1777. This significant historical document, known as the Articles of Confederation, represented an early form of government for the newly formed United States. It was drafted and approved by the Continental Congress, a gathering of representatives from the thirteen American colonies. This Congress played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s early development and laying the groundwork for the more robust federal system established later by the U.S. Constitution of 1787.

The signing of the US Constitution in 1787 involved a total of 74 delegates who had been chosen to participate in the Constitutional Convention. Out of this group, 55 delegates were present during the signing ceremony, demonstrating a strong commitment to the process. However, it’s important to note that not all of the 55 attendees actually signed the Constitution. In the end, 39 delegates added their signatures to this foundational document.

It’s worth mentioning that some delegates chose to leave the convention before the signing ceremony took place, reducing the number of participants. Out of the remaining 42 delegates who stayed until the end, three individuals decided not to sign the Constitution for various reasons.

The signers of the Constitution represented a wide range of ages. Jonathan Dayton, who was just 26 years old at the time, became the youngest delegate to add his signature to this historic document. On the other end of the age spectrum, Benjamin Franklin, at the age of 81, was the oldest delegate to sign the Constitution. These diverse ages and backgrounds among the signers underscored the broad support for this significant step in the formation of the United States.

John Dickinson, a delegate with significant writing expertise, was selected as the chairman and the principal contributor to the Articles of Confederation. Interestingly, despite his prominent role in drafting this foundational document for the United States, Dickinson was among the delegates who did not sign the Declaration of Independence.