It was principle that brought these men to Philadelphia in June 1776. They knew what they risked – the penalty for treason was death by hanging.
Of the 56 who signed the Declaration of Independence, 9 died of wounds or hardships during the war. Five were captured and imprisoned, suffering brutal treatment. Several lost wives, sons or entire families. One lost his 13 children. Twelve had their homes burned. Seventeen lost everything they owned.
Two became presidents of the United States, 7 became governors. One died in office as Vice President of the United States. Several would go on to be U. S. Senators.
Not one defected or went back on his pledged word:
“…we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor.”
Their honor, and the nation they sacrificed so much to create, is still intact.
(c) Patriotic Expressions and Patriotic Minute 2008
Not for reproduction without permission from author
