Which American Founding Father was the youngest signer of the Declaration of Independence?

Edward Rutledge was the youngest signer of the Declaration of Independence, signing at age 26.

Rutledge was born in Charleston, South Carolina, on November 23, 1749. He studied law in London and returned to South Carolina before becoming a delegate to the Continental Congress. His age made him one of the younger members of the congressional group that approved independence.

Rutledge initially received instructions from South Carolina leaders to oppose independence because they considered the timing uncertain. He nevertheless participated in the congressional process and signed the final parchment document with the other South Carolina delegates.

His later career included service in the South Carolina legislature, military involvement during the Revolutionary War, and the governorship of South Carolina. He was captured at Charleston in 1780 and held in St. Augustine before being released in a prisoner exchange.