George Mason
George Mason IV
George Mason, author of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, was a Founding Father born in Fairfax County, Virginia.
- Profession
- Statesman, Planter
- Born
- December 11, 1725
- Years active
- 1759–1792
Early life
Born in 1725 in Fairfax County, Mason was a wealthy planter and self-educated legal scholar who built the estate Gunston Hall.
Career
He drafted the 1776 Virginia Declaration of Rights, a direct model for the U.S. Bill of Rights, but refused to sign the Constitution over its lack of one.
Major achievements
His insistence on enumerated rights profoundly shaped American constitutional liberty.
Legacy
Honored as a "Father of the Bill of Rights," Mason lends his name to George Mason University.
References
Frequently asked questions about George Mason
- What is George Mason known for?
- George Mason, author of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, was a Founding Father born in Fairfax County, Virginia. George Mason is recognized as a statesman and planter.
- Where is George Mason from?
- George Mason is from Fairfax County, Virginia.
- When was George Mason born?
- George Mason was born on December 11, 1725, in Fairfax County, Virginia.
- Is George Mason still active?
- George Mason was professionally active from 1759 to 1792.
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