Stephen Hopkins

Hopkins was the second oldest signer of the Declaration of Independence. Only Ben Franklin was older.

Hopkins spent most of his adult life in public service. He was responsible for one of the first antislavery laws in the USA.

Hopkins' advanced age shows in his shaky signature. He had a form of palsy. His incessant shaking made it hard for him to write.

As he signed the Declaration, he spoke courageously. "My hand trembles, but my heart does not!"

www.john316marshall.com

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