Maltreated and Maligned: Richard Stockton’s Revolutionary War Ordeal

In this installment of ‘When Character Counted,’ a hero of the American Revolution lost his wealth, reputation, and nearly his life for the cause of liberty.

A detail of "Richard Stockton (“The Signer”), Class of 1748," 19th century. Unknown artist. Oil on canvas. Princeton University Art Museum, bequest of Mrs. Alexander T. McGill. Public Domain

The Declaration of Independence concludes with these bold but foreboding words for all who signed it: “And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.”

The men who supported freedom from Great Britain and fixed their signature to this document were well aware of the risks. Britain was already building a global empire, aided by a powerful army and a navy without rival. In contrast, the colonials sported some militias, but they were manned by volunteers. To put your name on this declaration readily identified you as an enemy of the Crown, traitors fighting a war of sedition. Lose the war or be taken captive, and you would find yourself in dire straits.