The United States Declaration of Independence, signed in 1776, includes the signature of Matthew Thornton, an Ulster-born physician who emigrated from County Antrim to the American colonies as a child. As the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary, the Irish contribution to the founding of the nation remains a focal point for historians and the Irish diaspora.
Who was Matthew Thornton?
Matthew Thornton was born in County Antrim, Ireland, around 1714. His family emigrated to North America when he was a young boy, eventually settling in New Hampshire. Thornton became a physician and a prominent political figure in the colony.
He was not present in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776, when the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. However, as a representative of New Hampshire, he was permitted to add his signature to the document on November 4, 1776, after he was elected to the Continental Congress later that year. He remains one of several signers born outside the thirteen original colonies.
The Irish Presence in the American Revolution
The role of the Irish in the American Revolution extended well beyond Thornton.
Historians often point to the "Irish influence" on the revolution, noting that many immigrants from Ulster—often referred to as Scots-Irish—held strong anti-British sentiments due to economic and religious restrictions faced in Ireland. This demographic provided a substantial portion of the manpower for the colonial resistance against the British Crown.
Commemorating the 250th Anniversary
As the United States prepares for its 250th anniversary, organizations are working to highlight the diverse origins of the nation’s founders. The legacy of figures like Thornton serves as a bridge between modern Irish-American identity and the historical roots of the American experiment.
For the modern Irish diaspora in the United States, this anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on the integration of Irish heritage into the American political fabric. While the demographics of the country have shifted significantly since 1776, the historical narrative of the "Irish signer" continues to be a point of cultural pride and academic interest.
Key Facts About the Declaration Signers
- Total Signers: There were 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence.
- Foreign-born Signers: Eight of the signers were born outside the British Isles or the American colonies, including Matthew Thornton (Ireland), James Wilson (Scotland), and John Witherspoon (Scotland).
- The "Antrim Connection": Thornton’s early life in Northern Ireland is well-documented in local historical records in County Antrim, where his departure is often cited in studies regarding the 18th-century transatlantic migration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Matthew Thornton the only Irish signer?
While Thornton is the most prominent figure born in Ireland, other signers had Irish ancestry. Historical records confirm that several signers had parents or grandparents who emigrated from Ireland to the colonies.
Why did Thornton sign in November instead of July?
The signing of the Declaration of Independence was a process that occurred over several months. Many delegates were not in Philadelphia on July 4, and they added their signatures as they arrived or were appointed to the Congress throughout the latter half of 1776.
Where can I see the original document?
The original engrossed Declaration of Independence is currently housed at the National Archives Museum in Washington, D.C., as part of the Charters of Freedom.
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