Richard Bassett

Anti-Administration Senator of Delaware

Congresses Served

Senate Terms

January 1, 1745 (70 years old)

Birthday

January 1, 1815

Death

American Founding Father and politician active during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Served as a United States Senator, Governor of Delaware, and Chief Justice of the Delaware Court of Common Pleas.
Participated in the American Revolution and held a captaincy in the Delaware State Militia.
A delegate to the Constitutional Convention and a signer of the United States Constitution.
Initially a slave owner, he later became an abolitionist after converting to Methodism, advocating for the abolition of slavery in Delaware.
Held various political roles, including membership in the Delaware Legislative Council and the Delaware House of Representatives.
Appointed as a judge to the United States Circuit Court for the Third Circuit, but his service was short-lived due to the court’s abolition.
Known for his hospitality and philanthropic efforts within his community.
His legacy includes being the grandfather of two future U.S. senators from Delaware.