John Hancock
John Hancock - One’s signature. John Hancock was the first man to sign the Declaration of Independence and did so in an exceptionally large, clear hand. Indeed, he supposedly remarked, “I guess King George will be able to read that” (July 4, 1776). In the mid-nineteenth century, his name was transferred to anyone’s signature.
Related Terms and Expressions
- Autograph: A person’s handwritten signature. There was a time when collecting these was as much a hobby as snapping selfies!
- Moniker: A name or nickname. It’s like the fun alias your secret agent persona would use.
- Signature: Your personal sign-off. Whether it’s a stylish script or a simple scribble—it’s uniquely you.
- Inscription: A short, written message, often found on the inside of books. Think of it as an old-school text message etched in ink.
- Penmanship: The art of handwriting. A long-lost skill in the age of typing thumbs and voice-to-text.
Proverbs & Inspirational Quotes
- “The pen is mightier than the sword.” – Edward Bulwer-Lytton
- “A signature always reveals a man’s character – and sometimes even his name.” – Evan Esar
- “Sign your name on the world in indelible ink.”
Literary References
- Literature: The Declaration of Independence - Nailed it, John!
- Books: “John Adams” by David McCullough - Gives a great insight into that iconic signature era.
- Poetry: “Song of Myself” by Walt Whitman - You’ll need a strong John Hancock for these odes about the self.
- Movies: National Treasure - Cracks open the mystery behind signatures on historical documents.
Fun Facts
- John Hancock’s signature was so prominent that, to this day, asking someone for their “John Hancock” means asking for their signature.
- Imagine if signatures went out of style, much like powdered wigs and wax seals!
### What does "Give me your John Hancock" mean?
- [x] Asking for a signature
- [ ] Asking for money
- [ ] Asking for a handshake
- [ ] Asking for a smile
> **Explanation:** It's all about getting that signature. Time to practice that autograph!
### Who was John Hancock?
- [x] The first signer of the Declaration of Independence
- [ ] A famous poet
- [ ] An inventor
- [ ] A musician
> **Explanation:** John Hancock, with his grand signature, was the first to sign the Declaration of Independence. Talk about making a mark!
### What is another term for 'signature'?
- [ ] Drawing
- [x] Autograph
- [ ] Sketch
- [ ] Stamp
> **Explanation:** An autograph is another term for a person's handwritten signature. That’s why celebrities write autographs and not sketches!
### True or False: John Hancock's remark "I guess King George will be able to read that" is historically documented.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** True! John Hancock’s bold confidence was meant to send a clear message to King George III. Talk about mic drops!
Remember, signing off with a piece of yourself transforms mere letters into a timeless mark. Keep your penmanship proud and signatures strong.
Lumi Literatti October 5, 2023
