The Founding Fathers were the notable figures who played an important role during the independence and birth of United States. Most of the Founding Fathers were members of the First and Second Continental Congresses.
The more well-known Founding Fathers were the Congress members who signed the famous Declaration of Independence. Many of the Founding Fathers went on to serve as the President of the United States. These include the following.
George Washington originally served in the British army. But as Britain began to tighten its colonial control in America, Washington favored the independence of the colonies. He led the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War and provided strategic guidance and leadership for the Revolution.
His personality became an icon of the resistance, endurance and independence during the war. Following the end of war and the independence of USA, he was elected as the 1st President of the United States. He served two consecutive terms and then stepped down from the position. He is credited with establishing the tone and style of the American democracy and government.
John Adams was among the Founding Fathers of the United States. He played an important role during the American Revolution as a part of the Continental Congress. Once the revolutionary war ended, he was instrumental in securing the peace treaty between Britain and United States.
He served as the Vice President during the two Presidential terms of George Washington. He was then elected as the 2nd President of the United States and served in the position from 1797 to 1801. Adams was the first American President to take up residence in the White House.
Thomas Jefferson was one of the most well-known Founding Fathers of USA. He was the main author of the famous Declaration of Independence and played an important role during the American Revolution.
Following the birth of USA, he became an ardent advocate of democracy. He was elected as the 3rd President of United States in 1801 and served in the position for two consecutive terms until 1809. During his reign, he oversaw the Louisiana Purchase which nearly doubled the territories of United States. He also spoke against slavery and banned the import of slaves to America.
James Madison was one of the principal Founding Fathers. He is most notably known for the instrumental role he played in drafting the Bill of Rights and the United States Constitution. He was elected as the 4th President of the United States and served two consecutive terms from 1809 to 1817. During his reign, the relations between Britain and US deteriorated, leading to the War of 1812.
James Monroe was the 5th President of the United States. He was also a Founding Father of the country. He served as the President from 1817 to 1825, remaining in power for two consecutive terms. His Presidential term marked an improvement in the economy and began the Era of Good Feelings. Monroe also adopted the Monroe Doctrine which warned European powers not to interfere in Latin America.
