John Hancock's Life and Speeches

John Hancock was a key figure in the American Revolution, but one who has not received as much attention from historians as his more illustrious colleagues Jefferson and Washington. Hancock worked to maintain good relations with the French military, a crucial factor in the ultimate success of the revolt, and used his influence as president of the Continental Congress to cajole fellow delegates into making tough decisions. He was also instrumental in the creation of the Bill of Rights after the war. Brandes re-examines the career of this patriot and his place in the American Revolution utilizing a rigorous search and analysis of his papers. Hancock's thirty-one speeches are reprinted here in toto. Bibliography and index.