How Americans Are Like A Founding Father
Did you ever wonder why John Hancock's signature was so large on the Declaration of Independence? There are lots of theories out there including:
- Hancock was the Congressional President, so the size showed his rank.
- Hancock wanted to make sure that King George, who was notoriously nearsighted, could see his name.
- Hancock wanted to encourage others to sign the document, so he wanted to make a statement with a large, declarative signature.
- Hancock signed it first and assumed that everyone would be signing with that size font.
All of these make nice stories, though there's not much evidence that they're true. A more likely scenario is that Hancock was used to writing his name with a certain flair. (I picture him doodling his signature all over his Pee Chee folder in High School!)
All we know FOR SURE is that John Hancock was the first to sign the document and he wasn't afraid to make a mark! I don't know about you, but those two facts alone make a big impression on me.
John Hancock went FIRST and he went BIG.
How utterly American of him.
I have an immigrant friend who tells me how distinctive Americans are because of their bold attitude about their potential. He sees that Americans believe they really can impact anything they set their mind to. He talks about how Americans aren't afraid to lead. He also says that Americans are really loud. (He gives a compliment, then takes it away!) "Doesn't everyone act like that?" I asked.
No, apparently not.
The conversation left me with just one other reason I love our country. Sure, we're loud, but at least we're ready to lead! Something tells me John Hancock would appreciate this attitude as well.
Happy Birthday America!! Get out there and do something great today ...and, try to keep the noise down, would ya?