Carter Braxton was a wealthy landowner, businessman, and financier of the American Revolution. Born on September 10, 1736, at Newington Plantation in Virginia, Braxton graduated from the College of William and Mary in 1755. At 19, he married into another influential family, further elevating his social standing. Tragedy struck when his wife died after two years, leaving him with two daughters. To recover, he spent time in England, where he became familiar with British politics and its colonial policies.

After remarrying, Braxton resumed life as a planter and businessman in Virginia. As tensions with Britain escalated, he joined the Virginia House of Burgesses and in 1776 was appointed as a delegate to the Continental Congress. Though initially reluctant, he came to support independence and signed the Declaration of Independence, risking his wealth and status in the process.

Braxton invested heavily in the Patriot cause, funding the Continental Navy and military efforts. Many of his ships and ventures were lost to British blockades and wartime destruction. Once one of Virginia’s wealthiest men, he took on tremendous debt due to his commitment to the cause.

After the war, Braxton continued to serve in the Virginia state government. He died on October 10, 1797, at the age of 61, having sacrificed much of his fortune in support of American freedom.