The Catholic Founder History Almost Erased

Faith Facts

• Charles Carroll of Carrollton was the only Roman Catholic signer of the Declaration of Independence and its last survivor, living until 1832
• Carroll risked his vast fortune and potentially his life for American independence, openly defending religious liberty in colonial Maryland
• Despite his pivotal role in securing religious freedom for all Americans, Carroll’s legacy has been largely forgotten by modern history

In an era when religious persecution was commonplace and Catholics faced systematic discrimination throughout the colonies, one man stood courageously at the founding of our nation to ensure that religious liberty would become a cornerstone of American freedom. Charles Carroll of Carrollton, the only Roman Catholic to sign the Declaration of Independence, risked everything for principles that would benefit believers of all faiths.

Carroll’s wealth made him one of the richest men in America at the time of the Revolution. When he added “of Carrollton” to his signature on the Declaration, he wasn’t being pretentious—he was ensuring British authorities would know exactly which Charles Carroll to hang for treason. His additions made clear he was willing to sacrifice his enormous estate for American independence.

Before the Revolution, Carroll had already distinguished himself as a defender of religious freedom. In colonial Maryland, Catholics couldn’t vote, hold office, or practice law. Yet Carroll used anonymous newspaper articles to challenge these restrictions and defend the natural rights of all men, regardless of their faith.

His contributions to the founding extended beyond signing the Declaration. Carroll served in the Continental Congress, helped draft Maryland’s state constitution, and later became one of the first U.S. Senators. Throughout his public service, he championed the cause of religious liberty that would eventually be enshrined in the First Amendment.

Carroll lived to the remarkable age of 95, dying in 1832—making him the last surviving signer of the Declaration of Independence. By the time of his death, he had witnessed the Constitution’s ratification, the Bill of Rights’ adoption, and the peaceful transfer of power between political parties. The religious freedom he fought for had become firmly established in American law.

The question remains: why has such a towering figure in the fight for religious liberty been largely forgotten? Carroll’s story demonstrates that faith and patriotism have been intertwined since America’s founding. His Catholic faith didn’t make him less American—it motivated his defense of liberty for all.

His legacy reminds us that religious freedom wasn’t a side issue for the Founders but a central pillar of the American experiment. At a time when some seek to diminish religion’s role in public life, Carroll’s example shows that believers have always been essential to preserving American freedom.

The forgotten story of Charles Carroll of Carrollton deserves to be told in every classroom and remembered by every generation. His courage in the face of persecution, his commitment to universal religious liberty, and his willingness to sacrifice everything for American independence make him a true patriot whose contribution to our nation’s founding should never be overlooked.

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