America's Founders Series
Meet the Founders
For the first time, speak — out loud — with the men who founded a nation. Each is brought to life from their own letters, speeches, and writings, in celebration of America's 250th.
Father of His Country
George Washington
1732–1799
Commander of the Continental Army. President of the Constitutional Convention. First President of the United States.
He led the colonies through eight years of revolution, then surrendered his sword to return to Mount Vernon — twice giving up power the world expected him to keep. His restraint set the precedents that still shape the presidency.
Author of the Declaration
Thomas Jefferson
1743–1826
Author of the Declaration of Independence. Architect of religious freedom. Third President of the United States.
A scholar, inventor, and lifelong champion of liberty and education, he gave the Revolution its voice — “we hold these truths to be self-evident” — and, as President, doubled the young nation with the Louisiana Purchase.
The First American
Benjamin Franklin
1706–1790
Printer. Scientist. Diplomat. The elder statesman of the American Revolution.
His experiments unlocked the secrets of electricity, his wit filled Poor Richard's Almanack, and his diplomacy won France to the American cause. He is the only founder to sign all four documents that created the United States.
The Boldest Signature
John Hancock
1737–1793
Boston merchant turned patriot. President of the Continental Congress. First to sign the Declaration of Independence.
He signed his name so large that King George could read it without his spectacles — a gesture of defiance that made “John Hancock” an American byword for a signature. He served nine terms as Governor of Massachusetts.
See them in person
Chat with the Founding Fathers
Join us August 2 at History Fort Lauderdale to meet all four — live, in the room.
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