Unlike many of his contemporaries, John Laurens was not in America when the Revolutionary War broke out. In fact, he was across the pond in London, studying law, an opportunity his wealthy father had obtained for him. However, after reading Thomas Paine's famous treatise Common Sense, Laurens felt the call of his country.
In 1777, he abandoned his studies against his father's wishes, and sailed back to America to join the fight for liberty. By August of that same year, he'd became aide-de-camp to General Washington.
Laurens participated in many battles of the war, including Brandywine and Germantown, and his heroism earned him a promotion to lieutenant colonel. While at Valley Forge, Laurens not only maintained stability in the administration of Washington's army, but also communications between the general and John's father, Henry Laurens, who was then president of the Continental Congress at York.
Laurens was also a great advocate for the black slaves, and attempted to offer them enlistment in the Continental Army. He was an honorable gentleman of his day, gaining the respect of friend and foe alike, including General Charles Lee, with whom he had a duel. Laurens carried out many other courageous and valuable assignments during the war, and successfully negotiated a surrender with the British after the York campaign.
Although he was invited by his friend Alexander Hamilton into the Continental Congress, Laurens was ambushed by the British and mortally wounded before he could step into such a role. Even against impossible odds, John Laurens was leading the charge.
He was a daring and confident character, sometimes departing the beaten path to get things done. He even ignored protocol before Louis XVI in order to obtain much-needed supplies for the rebels. He knew what was needed, and he was never one to settle for the status quo. With such an attitude, there's little doubt that John Laurens would have supported the Convention of States. His gravestone is inscribed with a Latin text: "Sweet and fitting it is to die for one's Country."
John Laurens and millions of others throughout history have died for their country. Do not let their sacrifice be for nothing. Take action and be one of 50,000 Marylanders to join our Race to Liberty. Sign the petition at Convention of States Action today!
