Francis Lightfoot Lee was born on October 14, 1734, at Stratford Hall Plantation, Virginia, into the prominent Lee family, a political dynasty with roots in America dating back to the 1630s.

Raised on his father’s tobacco plantation, Lee was privately educated by tutors but did not attend college. As a young man, he focused on managing family landholdings, but by the late 1750s, he turned to politics. He was elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses, where he opposed British policies such as the Stamp Act and spoke out for colonial rights. 

His dedication to the Patriot cause led to his election to both the First and Second Continental Congresses, where he served alongside his brother, Richard Henry Lee. Though equally committed to independence, the two brothers differed in style: Richard was known for his public speaking, while Francis was quieter and led through action rather than oratory.

In 1776, Francis Lightfoot Lee signed the Declaration of Independence. He also helped draft the Articles of Confederation and briefly served in the Virginia State Senate.

Following his public service, Lee retired to his estate, Menokin, where he lived a quieter life. He died on January 11, 1797, at age 62, just days after the death of his wife, Rebecca. The couple had no children.