Francis Hopkinson (1737-1791) was an American lawyer, judge, author, and patriot from New Jersey who became one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Born on September 21, 1737 and educated at the College of Philadelphia (now the University of Pennsylvania), he was active in politics, law, music, and literature. Hopkinson served on the Continental Congress and supported independence during the Revolution. He is often credited with helping design early versions of the American flag and other national symbols, as well as writing satirical essays and songs that bolstered the patriot cause. After independence, Hopkinson held various public offices, including serving as a federal judge in Pennsylvania, appointed by President George Washington. A man of many talents, he left a legacy as both a Founding Father and cultural contributor to early American identity.

Note: In 1752, Great Britain and all its colonies adopted the Gregorian calendar which moved Hopkinson's birthday 11 days forward to October 2, 1737.