When we think of the 4th of July, some
of us think about more than grilling and fireworks. This is our nation’s
birthday and marks the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Most people
(I am being charitable here) can remember the names of a few of the signers.
Most might recall John Hancock, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams. Some might
even remember that Benjamin Franklin signed the document. Some might even
mistakenly think George Washington signed, but few will mention the name
Charles Carroll of Carrollton, the sole Catholic to sign the Declaration of
Independence.
Although few recall his name today, prior to his
death in 1832, Charles Carroll was considered one of the most important
founders of America. Carroll hailed from Maryland and came from a wealthy
Catholic family. Some historians credit
Carroll for developing the concept of the Senate. Carroll was instrumental in legitimizing
Catholicism during the early American Republic. Charles Carroll also served in the U.S. Senate
and was an early opponent of slavery.
His cousin John Carroll, for whom he is often
mistaken, was the Archbishop of Maryland. Charles Carroll was the last
surviving signer when he died in 1832. The city of Carrollton, Maryland is named
after him.
For more on Charles Carroll, I recommend reading American
Cicero: The Life of Charles Carroll by Bradley J. Birzer or for a shorter
read I recommend, Christopher
Blosser’s post on The American Catholic.
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