George Wythe: The Mentor to the Founding Fathers

George Wythe (May 3, 1726 – June 8, 1806) was a prominent American jurist and statesman who played a significant role in the American Revolution and the early years of the United States. He was a mentor to many of the Founding Fathers, including Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and John Marshall. Wythe served as a delegate to the Continental Congress, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and a justice of the Virginia Supreme Court.

Early Life and Education

George Wythe was born in Elizabeth City County, Virginia, on May 3, 1726. His father, Thomas Wythe, was a wealthy planter and merchant. Wythe's mother, Anne Wythe, was the daughter of Colonel William Randolph, a prominent Virginia politician.

Jefferson's Godfather, the Man Behind the Man: George Wythe, Mentor to the Founding Fathers

by Suzanne Harman Munson

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1784 KB
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Wythe received his early education at home from private tutors. He then attended the College of William & Mary, where he graduated with honors in 1748. After graduating from college, Wythe studied law under the guidance of his uncle, George Wythe, a prominent Virginia lawyer.

Legal Career

Wythe began his legal career in 1754. He quickly established himself as one of the leading lawyers in Virginia. Wythe was known for his legal scholarship and his courtroom skills. He was also known for his commitment to justice and his willingness to represent unpopular clients.

In 1774, Wythe was elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses. He served in the House of Burgesses until 1776, when he was elected to the Continental Congress.

Continental Congress

Wythe served in the Continental Congress from 1776 to 1777. He was a member of the committee that drafted the Declaration of Independence. Wythe was also a member of the committee that drafted the Articles of Confederation.

In 1777, Wythe was appointed to the Virginia Supreme Court. He served on the Supreme Court until 1790, when he was appointed to the United States Supreme Court.

United States Supreme Court

Wythe served on the United States Supreme Court from 1790 to 1791. He was the first justice of the Supreme Court to be appointed by President George Washington.

Wythe resigned from the Supreme Court in 1791 due to ill health. He returned to Virginia, where he continued to practice law and teach law students.

Mentor to the Founding Fathers

George Wythe was a mentor to many of the Founding Fathers, including Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and John Marshall. Wythe taught these men law and politics. He also helped them to develop their ideas about government and the rule of law.

Thomas Jefferson said of Wythe, "He was my antient master, and the first who kindled the lamp of science in my mind."

James Madison said of Wythe, "To him I owe everything."

John Marshall said of Wythe, "He was the greatest man I ever knew."

Legacy

George Wythe was a prominent American jurist and statesman who played a significant role in the American Revolution and the early years of the United States. He was a mentor to many of the Founding Fathers, and his ideas about government and the rule of law continue to influence American jurisprudence today.

Jefferson's Godfather, the Man Behind the Man: George Wythe, Mentor to the Founding Fathers

by Suzanne Harman Munson

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1784 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	518 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE