Life of the Author of the Declaration of Independence, James Smith

Born in Ireland, the second son of John Smith, James came into the world on September 17, 1719. The family traveled to America, where they settled in Chester County, Pennsylvania in 1727. James Smith was tutored during the day by a local Clergy and attended the Philadelphia Academy. Mr.Smith continued his studies under Dr. Allison. He did some surveying in Cumberland County, during this time period that is an important job. (Houghton Mifflin Co., Boston, MA, 1969) James also then studied law under his brother George and in the office of Thomas Cookson in Lancaster. James Smith began a practice in Shippensburg, later moving to York.

James Smith’s legal business grew, his surveying activities decreased, but it was a background experience for understanding land record descriptions, and the transfer of real property from one owner to another. (McFarland & Company, Jefferson, NC, 1997) About the early 1760’s Mr. Smith started an iron foundry, but the business did not prosper, he had placed the enterprise in the hands of two partners, who were, as Smith said, “one of who was a knave, and the other a fool.” That all resulted in Mr. Smith losing a bit of money on this idea.

Mr. Smith started to become well known in his area by the early 1770’s Mr. Smith was quite concerned about how the colonist were wanting to leave the kings ruling. Mr. Smith attended an assembly in 1774, where he offered a paper he had written on the Constitutional powers of Great Britain over the colonies in America.(Houghton Mifflin Co., Boston, MA, 1969) In the paper, Smith recommends that the colonies boycott all British trade. Mr. Smith felt that this method of hurting the British merchants economy would help force the Parliament to back away from their oppressing laws, such a move is exactly what transpires as the First Continental Congress in Philadelphia in the year 1774.

Mr. Smith was elected a delegate to the state of Pennsylvania in January 1775. Mr. Smith came up with the conclusion that if the British want to put such harsh rules on us like the trade taxes and the large amounts of debts and infringe our rights then we must defend our rights and go against Britain. (McFarland & Company, Jefferson, NC, 1997) Strong words, and not exactly the language everyone of the colonists would choose, many of whom, at this time, hoping for some form of agreement with the mother country. (Houghton Mifflin Co., Boston, MA, 1969) This is especially true for the state of Pennsylvania, where many of the delegates, as well as the citizens are Quakers, or at least going towards the direction of peace, not war. While peace is an adoring option, when securing liberty and freedom a firmer stand, and even a cost may be needed.

In conclusion I believe James Smith had an interesting life and did indeed play some key roles in the freeing of the thirteen colonies. Mr. Smith also has no descendants therefore his bloodline has ended but he is a man who crafted his own legacy.