Richard Henry Lee, American lawyer and politician, President of the Continental Congress (d. 1794)

Richard Henry Lee (January 20, 1732 – June 19, 1794) was a distinguished American statesman and a key Founding Father from Virginia. His monumental contribution to the birth of the United States is most notably encapsulated by the "Lee Resolution," the pivotal motion he introduced in the Second Continental Congress in June 1776, which formally called for the American colonies' independence from Great Britain.

The Pivotal Lee Resolution and American Independence

This critical resolution set in motion the process that culminated in the United States Declaration of Independence, a foundational document which Lee himself proudly signed. On June 7, 1776, Lee presented his three-part resolution to the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia. The first part unequivocally declared that "these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States." The second advocated for forming foreign alliances, and the third proposed a plan for confederation. While the declaration of independence section of his resolution was adopted by Congress on July 2, 1776, marking the actual vote for independence, it was the more formal and eloquently drafted Declaration of Independence, primarily penned by Thomas Jefferson, that was adopted two days later on July 4, 1776, formally severing ties with the British Crown and explaining the reasons for this momentous decision.

A Versatile Public Servant and Leader in the Early Republic

Beyond his indispensable role in securing independence, Richard Henry Lee dedicated much of his life to public service, playing a vital part in shaping the early American republic. His extensive career included significant positions in both the fledgling national government and his home state of Virginia, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the nascent nation.

• President of the Continental Congress: Lee served a one-year term as President of the Continental Congress from November 1784 to November 1785. This was a critical administrative and symbolic leadership role under the Articles of Confederation, the first governing document of the United States. During his presidency, he presided over legislative sessions, managed correspondence, and represented the young nation on the domestic and international stages, providing vital leadership during a transitional post-war period.
• Signatory to the Articles of Confederation: As a prominent advocate for a unified American government, Lee was also a signatory to the Articles of Confederation. This document, ratified in 1781, established the first framework for the national government, even as its inherent weaknesses later led to the drafting of the U.S. Constitution. His signature underscored his commitment to the initial, albeit imperfect, union of the states.
• United States Senator from Virginia: With the ratification of the U.S. Constitution and the establishment of the federal government, Lee continued his service as one of Virginia's first United States Senators, serving from 1789 to 1792. During this pivotal period, he helped lay the groundwork for the legislative branch of the new republic, contributing to debates on fundamental issues such as the Bill of Rights and the location of the national capital.
• President pro tempore of the Senate: During his senatorial tenure, Lee was elected as the second president pro tempore of the Senate, serving in this capacity from April 6, 1789, to August 10, 1789. The president pro tempore presides over the Senate in the absence of the Vice President, signifying Lee's high standing and respect among his peers in the nascent upper house of the United States Congress and his continued influence in national affairs.

The Influential Lee Family of Virginia

Richard Henry Lee hailed from the esteemed Lee family, a historically influential and prominent political dynasty in Virginia. Often referred to as one of the "First Families of Virginia," the Lees were deeply entrenched in the socio-political fabric of the colony and later, the state, known for their large landholdings and extensive public service. This lineage provided Richard Henry Lee with a powerful platform and connections, contributing to his early entry and sustained prominence in American politics. The family's legacy extended across generations, producing numerous statesmen, military leaders, and public figures who significantly shaped Virginia and the nation's history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Richard Henry Lee

What was Richard Henry Lee's most significant contribution?

Richard Henry Lee is most renowned for introducing the "Lee Resolution" in the Second Continental Congress on June 7, 1776. This bold motion formally called for the American colonies' independence from Great Britain and directly paved the way for the Declaration of Independence, which he subsequently signed.

Why is Richard Henry Lee considered a Founding Father?

He is considered a Founding Father due to his critical role in advocating for and securing American independence, his signature on both the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation, and his extensive service in shaping the early United States government, including his leadership as President of the Continental Congress and a U.S. Senator in the first federal government.

What other important positions did Richard Henry Lee hold?

Beyond his pivotal Lee Resolution, he served as President of the Continental Congress from 1784 to 1785, was a signatory to the Articles of Confederation, and represented Virginia as a United States Senator from 1789 to 1792, during which he also served as the second President pro tempore of the Senate.

What was the significance of the Lee family in Virginia?

The Lee family was one of Virginia's most influential and politically powerful families, often called a "First Family of Virginia." Their deep roots in colonial society and continuous involvement in politics provided a strong foundation and network for members like Richard Henry Lee, enabling them to play significant roles in the state and national affairs for generations, contributing immensely to the American Revolution and the early republic.