Saturday, we celebrate the 250th birthday of our country. While it is obvious that the freedoms we enjoy were purchased by the blood of those who fought, lawyers were the unsung patriots in 1776. Without lawyers, the fight for freedom may not have even started.

America’s 250th birthday

Here are some interesting facts to consider:

1. Four of the five Declaration of Independence authors were lawyers. Thomas Jefferson is credited as the author of the Declaration of Independence, but there were actually five representatives who penned the document. The Continental Congress entrusted a “Committee of Five” with developing the Declaration, four of whom, Roger Sherman, John Adams, Robert Livingston, and Thomas Jefferson, were lawyers. Only Benjamin Franklin was not a lawyer.

2. Two of the lawyer-authors would go on to be U.S. Presidents. Two of the lawyer-members of the Committee later became President of the United States: John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. Coincidentally, both men died within hours of each other 200 years ago, on July 4th, 1826.

3. More lawyers signed the Declaration than any other profession. The National Archives has published a spreadsheet (PDF) of the representatives who signed the Declaration of Independence. The sheet also lists their occupation and while many occupied more than one parallel profession, 25 of the 56 signers were lawyers.

Without the Declaration of Independence, and the unsung patriots who stood up for the ideas expressed in it, we would not have the liberties that we enjoy. We’d like to challenge each of you to take a moment and read the Declaration of Independence . Whether it is the first time, or the first time in a long time, please do so. Chances are that you will enjoy America’s 250th birthday more and that you will be that much prouder to call yourself an American.

We are closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day. We will reopen on Monday, July 6, at 8:00 a.m. If you have an urgent legal matter, please email or leave a message, and we will respond promptly when we return.

If you’ve been involved in an auto accident or truck accident, contact us. We’re ready to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Additionally, call us at (573) 686-2459. We’re here to help.

The attorneys at Kennedy, Robbins, Yarbro & Henson, LC are ready to help you navigate the legal process. They will also fight for the compensation you deserve.