The first person to sign the Declaration of Independence was John Hancock. As the President of the Second Continental Congress, Hancock's bold and distinctive signature stands out on the document, which was adopted on July 4, 1776. His signature symbolizes the courage of the American colonies in declaring independence from British rule. Hancock was a prominent patriot and a wealthy merchant, which allowed him to take significant risks in supporting the Revolution. His act of signing the Declaration is often remembered as a defiant statement of commitment to liberty and self-governance, inspiring others to follow his lead in the fight for independence.