Vital Statistics

Biography

Richard Bassett was a wealthy lawyer and planter from Delaware who transformed from a revolutionary skeptic to a fervent Federalist. At the Convention, he did not play a large role in the debates, but his presence and eventual signature were significant. He returned to Delaware and worked tirelessly to ensure its swift ratification, making Delaware the 'First State' to approve the Constitution. He later served as a U.S. Senator and Governor, proving his deep commitment to the new republic.