- Signing the Declaration of Independence was extremely dangerous - a treasonable act, punishable by death
- Congress initially kept the names of the signatories secret to protect them from charges of treason
The Signature of John Hancock - Characteristics
A person's handwriting and its placing on the page express the impulses and characteristics of the individual. The following observations offer some facts and points of debate about the style of writing and signature of John Hancock and some possible answers - John Hancock was the first to sign the Declaration of Independence - look at the position of his signature and the size of the signature in relation to all of the other signatures
His signature is the largest - Indicates importance, confidence and creates a solid, authoritative, big impression, an extrovert, generous
- A person who has a high level of self-esteem, not in the least humble
- Large writing with firm pressure indicates ambition and dominance
His signature is elaborate and ornate - An ornate signature equates to be being somewhat ostentatious
- The writer intends to invite flattery or praise
His signature is the boldest and most prominent - Indicates a flair for the dramatic
His signature is underlined with a flourish - Those who emphasize their signature with a flourish are underling their importance - a man of standing, someone who demands and expects attention An indication of pride and self confidence
His signature sits directly under the text of the Declaration of Independence - Links himself irrefutably with the text of the document
His signature sits in the center of the Declaration of Independence His signature has a right slant - A right slant indicates an extrovert, expressive and sympathetic character. Right slant writers, like John Hancock, are open to new ideas and enjoy socializing with other people
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