Penman of the Founding

John Dickinson, one of the architects of the Constitution--and the main author of its predecessor, the Articles of Confederation--refused to sign the Declaration of Independence. His notion of rebellion was of civil disobedience rather than violent overthrow. Dickinson has been portrayed as a cooler head in a moment of hotheads; a Quaker in all but name. During his lifetime, Dickinson freed his slaves, even paid reparations, and advocated extending greater rights for women and Native Americans. He also served in the Continental Army, despite his Quaker principles, and fought with distinction. Written by the foremost expert on Dickinson, Jane E. Calvert's book shines a new light on this lesser-known but crucially important founding figure.