Which Declaration of Independence signer was the oldest at age 70?

Benjamin Franklin was the oldest Declaration of Independence signer, at age 70.

Franklin was a Pennsylvania delegate and one of the best-known members of the Second Continental Congress. His age and long public career made him a senior figure among the 56 people who eventually signed the document.

Franklin also served on the Committee of Five that presented the draft Declaration to Congress. Thomas Jefferson wrote most of the text, while Franklin helped revise and refine the draft. Franklin later played an important diplomatic role in securing French support during the Revolutionary War.

The age comparison refers to the signers of the Declaration, not every person involved in the independence movement. Edward Rutledge of South Carolina was the youngest signer, at 26. George Washington was not a signer because he was serving as commander of the Continental Army rather than as a delegate to Congress.