US Constitution
Portrait of Rufus King

Rufus King

Signer, Nationalist Orator

Vital Statistics

Born: March 24, 1755

Died: April 29, 1827

Birthplace: Scarborough, Massachusetts (now Maine)

Spouses: 1

Children: 7

Biography

Rufus King of Massachusetts was a man of towering intellect and powerful oratory. A young but influential delegate at the Convention, he was a staunch nationalist who worked alongside Hamilton and Madison to ensure a strong, effective central government. He served on the Committee of Style and Arrangement, helping to polish the final draft of the Constitution. His long and distinguished career as a senator and diplomat was a testament to a life dedicated to the service of the republic he helped create.