Benjamin Franklin was the oldest signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Franklin was 70 years old when he signed the document in 1776. He represented Pennsylvania in the Second Continental Congress and served on the Committee of Five that presented the draft Declaration to Congress. His scientific work, diplomacy, printing, and political experience made him one of the best-known American figures of the era.
Franklin’s signature appears among the 56 names on the engrossed parchment copy. He was also one of the document’s most internationally significant supporters, having spent years in Europe negotiating for colonial interests and later seeking French assistance for the American cause.
George Washington is often associated with the Revolution but did not sign the Declaration. Thomas Jefferson drafted the principal text and was younger than Franklin. John Hancock signed as president of Congress, but he was not the oldest signer.