Which signer of the United States Declaration of Independence was the oldest, signing at age 70?

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

Franklin represented Pennsylvania in the Second Continental Congress and was one of the five members of the committee appointed to draft the Declaration. His diplomatic experience and reputation made him an important figure in the movement for independence.

At the time of signing, Franklin was far older than many of the other delegates. Edward Rutledge of South Carolina, aged 26, was the youngest signer. Franklin's age and public stature helped make his participation especially notable, although the document was signed by 56 delegates from all thirteen colonies.

Franklin is also associated with a famous remark about the need for the delegates to remain united, though the exact wording and context of quotations attributed to him can vary. His signature on the Declaration was one of several major contributions he made to the founding of the United States.