Charles Carroll
Charles Carroll was a key figure throughout the start of the revolution in Maryland and was a key reason why they even supported revolution in the first place. Born to wealthy parents, Carroll spent most of his childhood and young adulthood traveling Europe, studying to hone his mind in politics.
Upon his return to a country about to enter a revolutionary war, Carroll supported the idea that they needed to separate from England. When the first Continental Congress was held, Maryland didn’t even send a representative because of how hesitant they were about entering armed conflict.
During the second Congress, however, Carroll acted as representative of his state and signed the Declaration of Independence. His next mission was to serve as an envoy to Canada to convince them to join the cause. He obviously failed, but still managed to sow the seeds of good will between the two nations.
When Maryland was putting together its state government, Carroll was there, drafting their state constitution and establishing the necessary offices. He was also remembered for his efforts by being elected to the first national congress. Overall, Carroll served as a key figure in governmental establishment during these turbulent times. He would die in 1832, the longest living member to sign the Declaration.