At 0:28 A signatory signed in BIG LETTERS to stand out o Dec Indep Merchant, Privateer, Financier of the American Revolution and party to the Boston Tea Party
@@nomdeplume7537 While tax-rep comms were in-transit, Parliament discourse re taxation was lively. It was doc’d along w/voting records. King George signed new colonial tax decrees w/copies fwd’d to the colonies. The transcripts are fascinating!📚
I'd hazard to say even Franklin is more revered than Hancock. Mercantilism did more to push the Colonies into revolt than any of the individual taxes. When you're forbidden to trade with other nations, and even forbidden to manufacture simple items, such as shovels. Only being able to supply the raw materials to British manufacturers, then forced to buy the finished products from those same manufacturers, at a price that far exceeds what's paid for the raw materials. It's inevitable that at some point ... how and where to shove those British goods, will soon follow. The taxes, provided the straw, and a broken camel
You missed one of my favorite facts about Hancock when asked about his signature he stated, "he didnt want to have the king wear his spectacles to see his signature"🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲
As far as US schools go, John Hancock's name is only mentioned briefly when discussing the Sons of Liberty (if you're lucky enough to get that subject covered). Other than that, the only thing we're taught on John Hancock is that he was the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence. Thank you for covering this.
I agree. As class trip we were sent to Philly and museums\guides go in great detail over the continental congress and the documents produced (more then declaration of Independence) . As for paintings of the 1stcontinental congress (may have the 2nd) John Hancock is always shown in the middle for his ability to bring 2 sides together. The painting of the signing of the declaration of independence most if not all painting depict John Hancock in action of signing. This was true in the Philly Museums back in the day....long ago since I have been in school.
Thankfully the teachers at my school did a bit more of a breakdown of the individuals who signed the declaration. Though it was still quite limited. I think that every child should learn more details about the founding fathers. Both the good and the bad.
I’m from Massachusetts and not far from Boston. Hancock and other American patriots from Mass came up a lot more in our education I think. Field trips to Boston, especially the Freedom Trail, had a big impact on our education in history
The progression of time is amazing. Having a British person explain more in depth just how pivotal John Hancock was, better than the american history books/teachers I learned from in school is something else. Extra info as always from the man Simon.
@@TreyMessiah95 According to his website he's presently located in Czech Republic but was raised in Britain. If he's not British, he definitely picked up their accent at least. If you happen to know his actual cultural background, feel free to provide that information along with your initial response next time.
1:15 - Chapter 1 - Preacher's son to merchant king 3:45 - Chapter 2 - The unlikely hero 6:35 - Chapter 3 - The road to revolution 9:00 - Chapter 4 - A city of traitors 12:05 - Chapter 5 - Independence with a flourish 15:15 - Chapter 6 - A lifetime of service 18:00 - Chapter 7 - The forgotten patriot - Chapter 8 -
He was there. History hasn't forgotten him. He was and is on every page of every day of the revolution. The thing is that he did it so quietly and competently that nobody had any reason to make a fuss about him.
That’s honestly a much more desired legacy in history than being branded as a traitor. Hancock simply did his duty behind the scenes - one can’t ask more from that. Not everyone can be a George Washington or a Thomas Jefferson, but you can take all of these founding fathers with their specific roles and combine them to create one solid team!
Wild how they took him from fighting because soon hed be formulating the group to make the declaration of independance, thomas jefferson was in that group of 5
Definitely agree that John Hancock being comparatively, relatively, and generally unknown, especially among the U.S. population, is baffling if not just tragic. Hancock's importance, to the foundation of the United States of America, being recognized and remembered as such is completely evident by the thing he is most known for: his grand signature being the first inscribed upon the United States' (aka Continental Confederation, aka United Colonies) Declaration of Independence. For John Hancock III to have that "honor" has to be an obvious indication of his importance to the independence of the country, ("honor" is in quotes because the document was also understood as being the document that would likely insure the death's for treason to all those who signed the declaration if the fight did not go the colonists' way.)
More of the Founding Fathers and their role in the enlightenment please ! As a British person trapped in an archaic and ridiculous monarchy I find this part of history fascinating. With recent events in the U.S such as the demagogue Trump, for example, I find myself often wondering ' what would the Founding Fathers have made of this' ? Having greater insight into their thinking is extremely valuable for any person that values democracy, irrespective of their country of origin. I wish this subject was covered more thoroughly in our education system but I suspect that there are obvious reasons for that. Very good podcast ! Thank you.
Thanks for this. I'm from South Boston, which is where Washington and Knox chased off those pesky Redcoats on March 17th( Evacuation Day/St. Paddy's Day) That's why Suffolk (Government employees) is the only county in America that gets the day off for St. Patrick' Day but I live in Quincy right next door. I live on Hancock Street ,my wife worked for Hancock insurance for 15 years, in the Hancock Building, the tallest building in Boston. Iwalk my pitbulls at PeaceField the house in the thumbnail,it's really nice, there's a good sized woded area right in the middle of the city. Actually the Dorothy Quincy house is basically across the street. Dorothy was his wife (you said Dolly Simon, oops)I found a baby guinea pig there. I even went to the same highschool as Hancock, Boston Latin, but I've weirdly never really read up on Hancock. It's weird because I love history, especially Boston history but for some reason he's a little bit of a blank spot, so thanks Sinon
Benjamin Franklin has a bit of cult of personality in the US as well, growing up in school Ben Franklin had a lot of attention, maybe not on the same level as Washington, Jefferson or Adams but pretty close. I think there is just so much attention we can give, there were many founding fathers but history books can only focus on so many within a general American history curriculum. Franklin was known for his eccentricity which no doubt helped cement him into the history books unlike Hancock, Rush or Rodney.
I love your channel Simon! I am learning about people, places, and events that I had only heard. Your in depth knowledge has me watching you and repeating past videos. So thank you!
Yeah, keep in mind to thank his Team though, I highly doubt it was just him that did the research. I think I remember one writer being mentioned several times, but even a Team of two seems like an insane workload considering the amount of output Edit: Danny is the Name (!?)
@@mistercarousel1872 he’s got several for the various channels. Danny does all the business blaze. Then he has a whole bunch of different ones for the others and a few different editors
Excellent video, again. Simon, there's something full circle of a British chap to explain one of our Founders. Cool, but odd. Felicitations from Tennessee. Cheers.
To this day, when people ask me for my "John Hancock", i tell them "I can't do that but i can give you my Eddie Hancock." Nobody finds it as funny as i do and I'm ok with that.
I was Paine'd (ha...ha...Revolution joke, there) the entire time that you didn't steal a line from The History Guy - "He's history. That deserves to be remembered."
Well he also organized the committee of 5. He gave thomas jefferson the job. All these guys just giving each other the dopest jobs humably possible the king was like "its a rebellion" 😂 this guy was hand selected to inheret more power than many had ever had before henwas running the merchant side and then he was organizing the 5 guys to handle the declaration of independance. Such a crazy thing
15:05 "It's so well known that even today, putting your John Hancock on something is a slang term for signing your name." John Hancock...😄...it's Herbie Hancock.
Humbly requesting George Carlin. A comedian and satirist who oftentimes hit the nail more than just on the head; and whose bits were infinitely more than just satire. The guy was a comedian, satirist, begrudged philosopher, and even the narrative voice of Thomas the Train.
@@bobcosmic St. George the Sublime, I like that. George on the other hand probably wouldn’t. On the other hand, maybe he’d create a sharp witted jab at the hypocrisy of religious folks, (which I happen to be).
Honestly I just know John Hancock from that Fairy Odd parents episode where Timmy goes back to the American Revolution and signs his name since he injured Hancock's hand.
I'm similar, all I know of him is this line of the Simpsons episode "Bart gets an F", "Look at John Hancock writing his name in the snow!", naturally Bart's mind has been wandering about the snow outside.
I'm proud to be from Boston. What I can see from this story is that we haven't changed much. We threw rocks at armed soldiers until they fired at us, then we're like, "Did you see what they just did?!!! They shot at us for no reason!". I'm not surprised that the war for independence started here. I love that and always have. I drive by Plymouth Rock multiple times per week, have lunch under the Pilgrim Monument in Provincetown twice a week, and lived across from Ben Franklin's grave for years. This country goes west to the tip of Alaska, and influences the entire globe... And our freedom of religion. and independence from the British Empire started right here where I exist every day. Thanks Simon. Free Danny.
you mean where the pilgrams stole their land from the native americans...yea continue to enjoy your lunches at a monument about genocide, Sorta like enjoying a nice meal at a consentration camp monument. How delightfull
I’m wondering if you all would ever be willing to do one on Governor George Wallace? I think his trip from moderate to the face of segregation, his presidential campaign and assassination attempt, all the way back to moderate is an interesting story. Just how chasing the vote and populism can change someone for the worse.
If you are watching this a few years on like I am now I highly recommend you do yourself a favor and watch the more recently produced series on John Hancock. It's a more in-depth look at what made Hancock so darn important. And you don't even have to look far for it because it's a Biographics series.
The man who wrote his signature in the biggest, boldest, most stylish and lavish way possible on the Declaration of Independence, is ironically the least remembered person to sign it.
Good video guys! Thanks. I didn't know much about J.H. other than his signature and the insurance company. This guy was a true hero! I'd surely watch a movie about him and his exploits.
The Reason and inspiration for my signature i researched this legend since age 7 starting with old Funk & Wagner Books . Even his demeanor style etc i researched love this . Coming from a Brother raised in the Bronx
@@Couldnt_let_J.Marston_die wow that is one of the most willfully ignorant statements I've heard in awhile. It's like saying the swastika is just a shape. It's what it stands for and you know it. stop being facetious.
You should do a video on that other forgotten American patriot, Samuel Adams. He's onlt remembered because a beer is named after. One of my ancestors was his mother.
I personally knew John Hancock - he was my US history teacher in middle school! Seriously, I have no idea if he took that job just because of his name or if he genuinely loved history from the start, but all of us who were ever in his class all know who John Hancock is/was. Teacher John Hancock's signature & hair wasn't nearly as impressive as 1700s/1800s signature & hair though
No one is revered on Washingtons level in the US (with the exception of maybe Abraham Lincoln) but Franklin has a pretty decent cult of personality to this day here.
"We all got thomas jefferson to write what we were thinking" Imagine being thomas jefferson and they got you writing that whole freaking thing with a feather
I found out last year that he is an ancestor of mine on my paternal grandmothers line. The genealogist working on my family history is still working on the complete Murphy family history as there is so much information from the civil war and war of independence.
I love your videos. However, you talk so fast I often have trouble following you. Today I started using closed captioning for your videos and it helps. Thanks for great content.
As an American, the one comment that caught me off guard was about non presidents not being talked about. That is true, but there’s one exception. Ben Franklin is still an incredibly famous figure, and all American school children are taught about him. To the point that a lot of American kids are surprised when they learn he was never president.
With all the wealth and power he had, he could easily have chosen to be a kiss a** for the Brits and enjoy a blissful life till death. But he chose to sympathise with and felt the pain of other patriots and fought for them. John Hancock is a true American patriot 🇺🇲🇺🇲
See at least where I went to school, we covered the founding fathers fairly in depth. So I actually knew a decent chunk of this (tho it's been years so a lot was just coming back) definitely not as much as the presidents, but I guess it just depends on where you go to school
Future Video suggestion - Eamon DeValera (1882-1975) - prominent political leader in 20th century Ireland who, after the Irish war of independence from 1919 to 1921, was in the public eye for over forty years from 1922 until his death were he served as head of government (Taoiseach) and head of state (president). He was nearly executed in the Easter Rising in 1916 and was key in putting into place the new constitution on 1937. A very prominent figure in Irish history.
I was talking to someone not too long ago and I mentioned John Hancock and John Adams. I was greeted by a blank stare as the person said, "Who are they?"
You forgot a ship. As a young junior USN officer, I had the privilege of serving on his namesake, the Spruance-class destroyer USS JOHN HANCOCK (DD-981), from 1990 to 1993. We were very proud of the fact that our ship was the only ship in the US Navy with her name in script, instead of simple block lettering, on the stern. We had that signature on our ball caps, signs, and a huge flag provided to the ship by the John Hancock Insurance company.
at a buffet, i personally sneak corndogs into the buffet so others can enjoy them. I hide 6 corndogs in my jacket pockets. it then, is a joy for me to see other patrons of the establishment eat my corndogs thinking they were part of the bufffff
His large and centrally located signature was due to the fact that at the time the Declaration was passed John Hancock was the President of Continental Congress, 1776
#1 reason for Hancock's patriotism: Money. His shipping business was hammered by the British taxes. He resorted to becoming one of the greatest smugglers of the day. Kind of like Washington, who by the way, was screwed over by the British during his stint with the British military. Although a good leader, he was always a second class officer because he wasn't "British". His surveying prowess of the back country in his early years led him to the belief that his rank in the army would give him privy to prime western lands. Not to be.
"Smuggling wine" yeah right. Last time I checked that was consitutionally protected activity so technically the man was ahead of his time. He was ahead of the rum runners in the prohibition 😂 this guy was literally hauling boatloads of frances finest 100% bro he was at the top. George washinton was running things and all his top guys there was definetly not tax on alcohol during their reign in this once great country 😂
I don’t know what you’re talking about. I learned almost all of this in school. Maybe not the info about his early life or just how rich he was but certainly we learn everything related to the revolution.
Whats crazy is i didnt realise they still had john paul jones body. Some guy hunted thst unit down in the ground in europe and they preserved what was left incase usa one day wanted to bring it back and so now its in a big ornate coffin on display which is quite a peculiar thing i cant say thats something you see every day unless you work there.
I respectfully disagree with him being largely forgotten. I grew up in Massachusetts in the 60’s-80’s , he was and still is very well known in the state.
As a resident of MA we're our amazing country and it's ideals of freedom began John Hancock celebrated in a few ways. Unfortunately like the rest of the Sons of Liberty he is looked over and it is a shame.
John Hancock is forgotten? Do people not say "give your John Hancock" for signature anymore? Do people sleep during U.S. History class? It was his early "Dickinson" childhood that made him the paradox he was. A smart/shrewd business man who understood the plight of the poorer class. I imagine his father's influence made him a good orator. I think he gets less attention because other stories have more "excitement". He was more of a diplomat, not specifically a war hero.
In Boston, there is the John Hancock Tower, named after him. He was also a grandfather of Winfield Scott Hancock, a Civil War General. That's far from being a forgotten patriot.
Winfield Scott Hancock has no relation to John Hancock. John Hancock's two children both died before reaching adulthood, and the Pennsylvania Hancocks and the Massachusetts Hancock families are not related in any way that I can find.
His signing his name as large & legibly as he did definitely put a target on his back. There was little chance that they could defeat the best military and navy in the world. Had they lost, they would have been hung as traitors. He was taking the phrase pledging our lives, fortunes & sacred honor seriously as he had so much to lose. Plus, there were a lot of loyalists who would have loved to have taken him out. For all his ostentatious displays of wealth, he seemed to really believe in the cause.
This video is sponsored by Quincy 400. To know more visit: quincy400.com/
At 0:28
A signatory signed in BIG LETTERS to stand out
o Dec Indep Merchant, Privateer, Financier of the American Revolution and party to the Boston Tea Party
Just think what might have been had the Crown and Parliament allowed Colonial representation in Parliament
@@nomdeplume7537 While tax-rep comms were in-transit, Parliament discourse re taxation was lively. It was doc’d along w/voting records. King George signed new colonial tax decrees w/copies fwd’d to the colonies. The transcripts are fascinating!📚
!!!!! RESPECT !!!!!
I'd hazard to say even Franklin is more revered than Hancock.
Mercantilism did more to push the Colonies into revolt than any of the individual taxes.
When you're forbidden to trade with other nations, and even forbidden to manufacture simple items, such as shovels. Only being able to supply the raw materials to British manufacturers, then forced to buy the finished products from those same manufacturers, at a price that far exceeds what's paid for the raw materials.
It's inevitable that at some point ... how and where to shove those British goods, will soon follow. The taxes, provided the straw, and a broken camel
You missed one of my favorite facts about Hancock when asked about his signature he stated, "he didnt want to have the king wear his spectacles to see his signature"🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲
"Ol George won't need glasses to read this" How could anyone forget such an iconic line?
As far as US schools go, John Hancock's name is only mentioned briefly when discussing the Sons of Liberty (if you're lucky enough to get that subject covered). Other than that, the only thing we're taught on John Hancock is that he was the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence. Thank you for covering this.
I agree. As class trip we were sent to Philly and museums\guides go in great detail over the continental congress and the documents produced (more then declaration of Independence) . As for paintings of the 1stcontinental congress (may have the 2nd) John Hancock is always shown in the middle for his ability to bring 2 sides together. The painting of the signing of the declaration of independence most if not all painting depict John Hancock in action of signing. This was true in the Philly Museums back in the day....long ago since I have been in school.
Thankfully the teachers at my school did a bit more of a breakdown of the individuals who signed the declaration. Though it was still quite limited. I think that every child should learn more details about the founding fathers. Both the good and the bad.
Australian here. That is as much about Hancock as I was taught at school here in Australia.
I’m from Massachusetts and not far from Boston. Hancock and other American patriots from Mass came up a lot more in our education I think. Field trips to Boston, especially the Freedom Trail, had a big impact on our education in history
He did get a whole movie staring Will Smith.
Probably, never saw it.
He's never been forgotten here in Massachusetts!
For a person that did so much, it's such a shame that people don't mention him as much as he deserves.
Just put your John Hancock down talk down it's literally what people say about a signature probably the most remembered of all of the forefathers
These men are celebrated in America 😂 where is this idea coming from?
His biggest i guess mistep was he was not cocky like the rest of them and did not do alot of writings on self . Plus tragedies did a number on him
The progression of time is amazing. Having a British person explain more in depth just how pivotal John Hancock was, better than the american history books/teachers I learned from in school is something else. Extra info as always from the man Simon.
Ugh Biographics is not brittish lol
Simon is British 🤦♀️
@@TreyMessiah95 According to his website he's presently located in Czech Republic but was raised in Britain. If he's not British, he definitely picked up their accent at least. If you happen to know his actual cultural background, feel free to provide that information along with your initial response next time.
@@maxcohen9639 he's British. His last name is Whistle, which is English. He moved to Czech Republic due to more economic opportunities.
@@theawesomeman9821 hahahahahahahaha hahahaha he came from a family of whistlers hahahahahahaha hahahah lmfao
1:15 - Chapter 1 - Preacher's son to merchant king
3:45 - Chapter 2 - The unlikely hero
6:35 - Chapter 3 - The road to revolution
9:00 - Chapter 4 - A city of traitors
12:05 - Chapter 5 - Independence with a flourish
15:15 - Chapter 6 - A lifetime of service
18:00 - Chapter 7 - The forgotten patriot
- Chapter 8 -
He was there. History hasn't forgotten him. He was and is on every page of every day of the revolution. The thing is that he did it so quietly and competently that nobody had any reason to make a fuss about him.
That’s honestly a much more desired legacy in history than being branded as a traitor. Hancock simply did his duty behind the scenes - one can’t ask more from that. Not everyone can be a George Washington or a Thomas Jefferson, but you can take all of these founding fathers with their specific roles and combine them to create one solid team!
Wild how they took him from fighting because soon hed be formulating the group to make the declaration of independance, thomas jefferson was in that group of 5
Not sure how, but I never noticed the additional “H” in the center of the underline design. Truly is a beautiful signature!
That was the one he was saving for the right moment he wanted the king to be jealous that his weiter sucked balls
and using a feather at that ,
Definitely agree that John Hancock being comparatively, relatively, and generally unknown, especially among the U.S. population, is baffling if not just tragic. Hancock's importance, to the foundation of the United States of America, being recognized and remembered as such is completely evident by the thing he is most known for: his grand signature being the first inscribed upon the United States' (aka Continental Confederation, aka United Colonies) Declaration of Independence. For John Hancock III to have that "honor" has to be an obvious indication of his importance to the independence of the country, ("honor" is in quotes because the document was also understood as being the document that would likely insure the death's for treason to all those who signed the declaration if the fight did not go the colonists' way.)
Absolutely!
More of the Founding Fathers and their role in the enlightenment please ! As a British person trapped in an archaic and ridiculous monarchy I find this part of history fascinating. With recent events in the U.S such as the demagogue Trump, for example, I find myself often wondering ' what would the Founding Fathers have made of this' ? Having greater insight into their thinking is extremely valuable for any person that values democracy, irrespective of their country of origin.
I wish this subject was covered more thoroughly in our education system but I suspect that there are obvious reasons for that. Very good podcast ! Thank you.
Trump is a opposite of the Isle LBJ with alot of ways like Andrew Jackson
“There’s only so many priorities that you can fund. What you choose to target, you need to win”
John Hancock
Thank you for this! I'm giving a nonprofit funding class this week and this quote is perfect!
Thanks for this. I'm from South Boston, which is where Washington and Knox chased off those pesky Redcoats on March 17th( Evacuation Day/St. Paddy's Day) That's why Suffolk (Government employees) is the only county in America that gets the day off for St. Patrick' Day but I live in Quincy right next door. I live on Hancock Street ,my wife worked for Hancock insurance for 15 years, in the Hancock Building, the tallest building in Boston. Iwalk my pitbulls at PeaceField the house in the thumbnail,it's really nice, there's a good sized woded area right in the middle of the city. Actually the Dorothy Quincy house is basically across the street. Dorothy was his wife (you said Dolly Simon, oops)I found a baby guinea pig there. I even went to the same highschool as Hancock, Boston Latin, but I've weirdly never really read up on Hancock. It's weird because I love history, especially Boston history but for some reason he's a little bit of a blank spot, so thanks Sinon
Did a report on Hancock in grade school and was always bummed he wasn't a bigger deal in history classes.
Benjamin Franklin has a bit of cult of personality in the US as well, growing up in school Ben Franklin had a lot of attention, maybe not on the same level as Washington, Jefferson or Adams but pretty close.
I think there is just so much attention we can give, there were many founding fathers but history books can only focus on so many within a general American history curriculum.
Franklin was known for his eccentricity which no doubt helped cement him into the history books unlike Hancock, Rush or Rodney.
Exactly. There is well over a hundred founding fathers from the colonies during the American revolution era.
I learned more about Hancock in your video, then I did in school. I'm certainly going to track down some reading material on him. As always, thanks.
I love your channel Simon! I am learning about people, places, and events that I had only heard. Your in depth knowledge has me watching you and repeating past videos. So thank you!
He’s got like 10 or 11 channels 🙌👍🏻👍
Yeah, keep in mind to thank his Team though, I highly doubt it was just him that did the research.
I think I remember one writer being mentioned several times, but even a Team of two seems like an insane workload considering the amount of output
Edit: Danny is the Name (!?)
@@mistercarousel1872 he’s got several for the various channels. Danny does all the business blaze. Then he has a whole bunch of different ones for the others and a few different editors
@@ryanf1425 cool cool thx
John Hancock: Forgotten Patriot
But never forgotten as a synonym for the word "Signature"
Simon teaching American history better than teachers in the USA.
I mean I learned more science from Bill Nye than my teachers in school, sooo
Excellent video, again. Simon, there's something full circle of a British chap to explain one of our Founders. Cool, but odd. Felicitations from Tennessee. Cheers.
I think I was at his gravesite a few years ago while on a tour of Boston. I definitely remember the tour guide talking about him.
To this day, when people ask me for my "John Hancock", i tell them "I can't do that but i can give you my Eddie Hancock."
Nobody finds it as funny as i do and I'm ok with that.
I appreciate this joke.
I was Paine'd (ha...ha...Revolution joke, there) the entire time that you didn't steal a line from The History Guy - "He's history. That deserves to be remembered."
Thank you for recognizing this patriot!
He signed his name the largest on the Declaration of Independence, as a big "eff you" to the British. That's mostly what I remember.
Well he also organized the committee of 5. He gave thomas jefferson the job. All these guys just giving each other the dopest jobs humably possible the king was like "its a rebellion" 😂 this guy was hand selected to inheret more power than many had ever had before henwas running the merchant side and then he was organizing the 5 guys to handle the declaration of independance. Such a crazy thing
and did it the week before the others lol
15:05 "It's so well known that even today, putting your John Hancock on something is a slang term for signing your name."
John Hancock...😄...it's Herbie Hancock.
Hey Simon, I was wondering if you could do a biographics video on the Bielski brothers from the movie Defiance? I think it would be an awesome video!
WHAT A GREAT VIDEO. Thanks a lot, Biographics!
As a Canadian in school we were taught about "No Taxation without Representation" when it came to the Revolutionary War.
And now look at the taxation we have with representation.
@@jimarcher5255I dont remember voting for anyone to represent me in favor of atf tax stamps because I dont support that tax specifically.
This being sponsored by Quincy 400 is AMAZINGLY COOL !!!
Humbly requesting George Carlin. A comedian and satirist who oftentimes hit the nail more than just on the head; and whose bits were infinitely more than just satire. The guy was a comedian, satirist, begrudged philosopher, and even the narrative voice of Thomas the Train.
The patron saint of logical thinking and common sense St George the Sublime !
No one uses complete sentences anymore.
@@bobcosmic St. George the Sublime, I like that. George on the other hand probably wouldn’t. On the other hand, maybe he’d create a sharp witted jab at the hypocrisy of religious folks, (which I happen to be).
Quit spamming it is pathetic.
@@JohnDoe-vn1we nah, don’t think I will. Glad you like the idea enough to comment though 🤷🏼♂️
Thank you, Simon, for this video.
If I was a high school history teacher I would totally show many of Simon's videos in class.
Honestly I just know John Hancock from that Fairy Odd parents episode where Timmy goes back to the American Revolution and signs his name since he injured Hancock's hand.
I'm similar, all I know of him is this line of the Simpsons episode "Bart gets an F", "Look at John Hancock writing his name in the snow!", naturally Bart's mind has been wandering about the snow outside.
I'm proud to be from Boston. What I can see from this story is that we haven't changed much. We threw rocks at armed soldiers until they fired at us, then we're like, "Did you see what they just did?!!! They shot at us for no reason!". I'm not surprised that the war for independence started here. I love that and always have. I drive by Plymouth Rock multiple times per week, have lunch under the Pilgrim Monument in Provincetown twice a week, and lived across from Ben Franklin's grave for years. This country goes west to the tip of Alaska, and influences the entire globe... And our freedom of religion. and independence from the British Empire started right here where I exist every day. Thanks Simon. Free Danny.
you mean where the pilgrams stole their land from the native americans...yea continue to enjoy your lunches at a monument about genocide, Sorta like enjoying a nice meal at a consentration camp monument. How delightfull
I’m wondering if you all would ever be willing to do one on Governor George Wallace? I think his trip from moderate to the face of segregation, his presidential campaign and assassination attempt, all the way back to moderate is an interesting story. Just how chasing the vote and populism can change someone for the worse.
This would be interesting
I don't think the channel would cover an overt racist
@@theawesomeman9821 well they covered Hitler and plenty of other Nazis, and they where pretty racist
@@josephkmeyer5178 true but many SJW's don't know that
@@theawesomeman9821 what an asinine comment
If you are watching this a few years on like I am now I highly recommend you do yourself a favor and watch the more recently produced series on John Hancock. It's a more in-depth look at what made Hancock so darn important.
And you don't even have to look far for it because it's a Biographics series.
Sam Adam's was the revolutionary where Hancock was the politician but the country wouldn't be founded without both of them
"Look everybody! John Hancock's writing his name in the snow!"
How about one on General Norman Schwarzkopf?(led collation forces during the Gulf War)
There's also the John Hancock tower in Boston, one of the city's most prominent buildings.
Hancock building in Chicago is named for him
The man who wrote his signature in the biggest, boldest, most stylish and lavish way possible on the Declaration of Independence, is ironically the least remembered person to sign it.
thats funny, because i was always told to practice my "John Hancock" (signature). maybe thats just a local, or family, thing for me
@@MrSylvandragon I've heard that before too, never knew exactly what it meant either 😂 I guess the guy really is obscure
@@Frosty_tha_Snowman I guess so, but tbf, I was never told who Hancock was
Good video guys! Thanks. I didn't know much about J.H. other than his signature and the insurance company. This guy was a true hero! I'd surely watch a movie about him and his exploits.
The Reason and inspiration for my signature i researched this legend since age 7 starting with old Funk & Wagner Books . Even his demeanor style etc i researched love this . Coming from a Brother raised in the Bronx
His signature was also signed in a large format because he wanted King George III to read it without his specticals.
I thought everyone knew that.
King George was busy stuffing himself with food, probably had a court official read it out to him in between pies and liberal amounts of cake.
Incredible
Simmon, as an American, that GIANT Q scared me at the beginning. Thought your channels were going to get waaaaaaaaay different.
Lol ya I let out an audible groan when I saw the big Q. Someone should inform the company that their iconography might lead to some confusion 🤭
Facts hahaha
Why? Its only a letter. I know the news tells you to be afraid of everything but seriously get a grip.
@@Couldnt_let_J.Marston_die wow that is one of the most willfully ignorant statements I've heard in awhile. It's like saying the swastika is just a shape. It's what it stands for and you know it. stop being facetious.
@@Fresh_Biscuits it's their game. Act like nothing is a big deal until something affects them.
You should do a video on that other forgotten American patriot, Samuel Adams. He's onlt remembered because a beer is named after. One of my ancestors was his mother.
I personally knew John Hancock - he was my US history teacher in middle school! Seriously, I have no idea if he took that job just because of his name or if he genuinely loved history from the start, but all of us who were ever in his class all know who John Hancock is/was. Teacher John Hancock's signature & hair wasn't nearly as impressive as 1700s/1800s signature & hair though
Ahh, the irony of learning about one of the founding fathers from a British youtuber. Well done on multiple levels.
Simon does a better job talking about the American founding fathers than America. He teaches American history better.
The farm in Harvard MA. where The Sona of Liberty met still stands. It's a really nice area.
Whenever I hear the name Hancock, the first man who calls to mind is Will Smith the drunk and bumbling superhero!😆
Well done Simon!!
Here in Quincy Massachusetts he is celebrated and honored.
How ironic that I'm learning about the American Revolutionary War from an Englishman.
JOHN BROWN, how have you not yet covered John Brown. Almost started the Civil War in the United States early during the bleeding Kansas period.
It's on the list!
No one is revered on Washingtons level in the US (with the exception of maybe Abraham Lincoln) but Franklin has a pretty decent cult of personality to this day here.
Jesus is above washington in usa
"of the people for the people"-John Hancock
"We all got thomas jefferson to write what we were thinking"
Imagine being thomas jefferson and they got you writing that whole freaking thing with a feather
Simon can you do william wilberforce?
Thank you for covering this, truly an interesting man at the birth of the country.
"Oh look John Hancock is writing his name in the snow ".
We learned a lot about him when I was in school.
I’m from Chicago where we named a building after him…..
I found out last year that he is an ancestor of mine on my paternal grandmothers line. The genealogist working on my family history is still working on the complete Murphy family history as there is so much information from the civil war and war of independence.
Ya, I found him to be a 2 cousin 9x removed
I love your videos. However, you talk so fast I often have trouble following you. Today I started using closed captioning for your videos and it helps. Thanks for great content.
As an American, the one comment that caught me off guard was about non presidents not being talked about. That is true, but there’s one exception. Ben Franklin is still an incredibly famous figure, and all American school children are taught about him. To the point that a lot of American kids are surprised when they learn he was never president.
With all the wealth and power he had, he could easily have chosen to be a kiss a** for the Brits and enjoy a blissful life till death. But he chose to sympathise with and felt the pain of other patriots and fought for them. John Hancock is a true American patriot 🇺🇲🇺🇲
A Thomas Paine Bio would be awesome.
See at least where I went to school, we covered the founding fathers fairly in depth. So I actually knew a decent chunk of this (tho it's been years so a lot was just coming back) definitely not as much as the presidents, but I guess it just depends on where you go to school
You should do a video about America's first president, John Hanson
Future Video suggestion -
Eamon DeValera (1882-1975) - prominent political leader in 20th century Ireland who, after the Irish war of independence from 1919 to 1921, was in the public eye for over forty years from 1922 until his death were he served as head of government (Taoiseach) and head of state (president). He was nearly executed in the Easter Rising in 1916 and was key in putting into place the new constitution on 1937. A very prominent figure in Irish history.
I was talking to someone not too long ago and I mentioned John Hancock and John Adams. I was greeted by a blank stare as the person said, "Who are they?"
Scary. Like if you say "human rights" theyll say "what are those?" Dystopian
You forgot a ship. As a young junior USN officer, I had the privilege of serving on his namesake, the Spruance-class destroyer USS JOHN HANCOCK (DD-981), from 1990 to 1993. We were very proud of the fact that our ship was the only ship in the US Navy with her name in script, instead of simple block lettering, on the stern. We had that signature on our ball caps, signs, and a huge flag provided to the ship by the John Hancock Insurance company.
Thank you for your service.
Ah yes. The man formerly known as John FootPenis.
Shouldn’t it be Shitter FootPenis?
at a buffet, i personally sneak corndogs into the buffet so others can enjoy them. I hide 6 corndogs in my jacket pockets. it then, is a joy for me to see other patrons of the establishment eat my corndogs thinking they were part of the bufffff
His large and centrally located signature was due to the fact that at the time the Declaration was passed John Hancock was the President of Continental Congress, 1776
#1 reason for Hancock's patriotism: Money. His shipping business was hammered by the British taxes. He resorted to becoming one of the greatest smugglers of the day. Kind of like Washington, who by the way, was screwed over by the British during his stint with the British military. Although a good leader, he was always a second class officer because he wasn't "British". His surveying prowess of the back country in his early years led him to the belief that his rank in the army would give him privy to prime western lands. Not to be.
"Smuggling wine" yeah right. Last time I checked that was consitutionally protected activity so technically the man was ahead of his time. He was ahead of the rum runners in the prohibition 😂 this guy was literally hauling boatloads of frances finest 100% bro he was at the top. George washinton was running things and all his top guys there was definetly not tax on alcohol during their reign in this once great country 😂
Speaking about the widely 'forgotten' (at least in America) figures of American Revolution, how about making a video about Tadeusz Kościuszko?
I don’t know what you’re talking about. I learned almost all of this in school. Maybe not the info about his early life or just how rich he was but certainly we learn everything related to the revolution.
Good video 👍
Look everybody! John Hancock's writing his name in the snow!
HE ISNT FORGOTTEN HE LIVES HERE IN NEW ENGLAND & EVERYTIME ANYONE SIGNS THEIR SIGNATURE ITS THEIR JOHN HANCOCK
What a legend
"It's not John Hancock... its Herbie Hancock...duuuhheerr!!!"
I love your Founding Father videos :D
We need a biographic on Cripus Attucks, the first person killed in the Boston Massacre who was also African American
Can you do a Biographics about Jean Lannes? He's one of Napoleon's best maréchals
Gone but never forgotten
Whats crazy is i didnt realise they still had john paul jones body. Some guy hunted thst unit down in the ground in europe and they preserved what was left incase usa one day wanted to bring it back and so now its in a big ornate coffin on display which is quite a peculiar thing i cant say thats something you see every day unless you work there.
Yeah they breezed over him in history class. The beer commercials taught me more about him.
There aren’t many patriots coming out of Boston these days….
Mark Wahlberg?
Tom Brady?
I respectfully disagree with him being largely forgotten. I grew up in Massachusetts in the 60’s-80’s , he was and still is very well known in the state.
As a resident of MA we're our amazing country and it's ideals of freedom began John Hancock celebrated in a few ways. Unfortunately like the rest of the Sons of Liberty he is looked over and it is a shame.
I unironically say "I just need your Hancock" when it comes to signatures.
Yeah, millions of people do, not sure why the title says "forgotten"
@@mercedes_nuts I use it, too. I think the forgotten bit comes from knowing that phrase rather than the man and his accomplishments. That's my guess.
I wouldn't say forgotten he has an expression named after him.
it's an urban legend. He stated that his signature was so prominent to make sure King George could see it
Based on the size of his signiture, I believe it.
Thank you for another interesting video 😁👍
John Hancock is forgotten? Do people not say "give your John Hancock" for signature anymore? Do people sleep during U.S. History class?
It was his early "Dickinson" childhood that made him the paradox he was. A smart/shrewd business man who understood the plight of the poorer class. I imagine his father's influence made him a good orator. I think he gets less attention because other stories have more "excitement". He was more of a diplomat, not specifically a war hero.
In Boston, there is the John Hancock Tower, named after him. He was also a grandfather of Winfield Scott Hancock, a Civil War General. That's far from being a forgotten patriot.
Winfield Scott Hancock has no relation to John Hancock. John Hancock's two children both died before reaching adulthood, and the Pennsylvania Hancocks and the Massachusetts Hancock families are not related in any way that I can find.
I didn't think his children lived long enough to have kids
John Hancock is my grandpa from the 17th century, he is in my family tree.
His signing his name as large & legibly as he did definitely put a target on his back. There was little chance that they could defeat the best military and navy in the world. Had they lost, they would have been hung as traitors. He was taking the phrase pledging our lives, fortunes & sacred honor seriously as he had so much to lose. Plus, there were a lot of loyalists who would have loved to have taken him out. For all his ostentatious displays of wealth, he seemed to really believe in the cause.
This guy deserves to have his own dollar bill!