Christopher Gadsden (1724–1805) was an American politician, merchant, and military leader, best known for his role in the American Revolution and as the designer of the Gadsden flag—the iconic yellow flag featuring a coiled rattlesnake and the phrase "Don't Tread on Me".
Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Gadsden was a vocal advocate for colonial resistance against British rule. He was a delegate to the Continental Congress, a brigadier general in the Continental Army, and a leader of the South Carolina Patriot movement. He also played a key role in the Stamp Act Congress (1765) and the First and Second Continental Congresses, pushing for independence.
Gadsden’s influence extended beyond politics—he was a successful merchant, owning several stores, merchant vessels, rice plantations, and Gadsden’s Wharf, one of the largest wharfs in North America. His strong stance against British authority made him a key figure in South Carolina’s revolutionary efforts
