Benjamin Harrison V, a colonial Virginia planter, merchant, and politician, was among the Founding Fathers who signed both the Continental Association and the United States Declaration of Independence. In addition to serving as a legislator in Virginia, he also held the position of governor in the state from 1781 to 1784. Born in Berkeley, Virginia in 1726, Benjamin Harrison was an early advocate for American independence and was elected to the Continental Congress in 1774. He was also a slave owner but supported a petition to King George III to end the slave trade in 1772. After serving as a lieutenant in the county militia, he returned to Virginia in 1777 to serve in the House of Burgesses and was eventually chosen as Speaker of the House and later elected Governor of Virginia. After five years in office, Harrison retired from his position as Governor.
