Arthur Middleton was a South Carolinian patriot who fiercely defended his colony’s interests and supported radical measures against British rule. He was one of a handful of signers of the Declaration of Independence to become a prisoner of war.

Born on June 26, 1742, near Charleston, South Carolina, Middleton was the son of a powerful plantation owner who later served in the Continental Congress. At age 12, Middleton began his education in England, graduating from St. John’s College (Cambridge) and studying law at Middle Temple in London.

After returning to South Carolina, he managed a rice plantation, became a Justice of the Peace, and served in the provincial House of Commons. By 1775, Middleton was a strong critic of British authority, advocating for harsh measures against Loyalists and helping to organize military defense as part of the Council of Safety. He contributed to drafting South Carolina’s constitution and co-designed the state’s official seal.

When his father became ill, Middleton replaced him in the Continental Congress, where he signed the Declaration of Independence and supported additional military aid to the South. He later returned to South Carolina and fought in the Battle of Charleston, where he was captured by British forces and held for a year.

After his release, Middleton rejoined the Continental Congress, where he strongly advocated for punitive actions against British military leaders, including Lord Cornwallis. Following the war, he rebuilt his damaged plantation, served in the state legislature, and became a trustee of the College of Charleston.