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Who was the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence?

John Hancock was the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence. Hancock was the President of the Second Continental Congress, a meeting of delegates from the Thirteen Colonies, which declared its independence from Great Britain in 1776. Hancock made the first signature on this famous document, a signature which is notable for its large and bold letters. It is rumoured that Hancock signed his name so large because he wanted the king, George III, to be able to read it without having to wear glasses. (You can view the signature using the reference link provided).


After Hancock, the Declaration was signed by the secretary of the Congress, Charles Thompson, and then by the remaining delegates, bringing the total number of signatures to 56. (See the second reference link for more information about the men who signed this document).

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