Abstract:
Richard Caswell is an important figure in the state's history serving as both the first and fifth governor and as a representative in the Continental Congress of 1774 and 1775. The article covers Caswell's early life from his legal training under William Herritage to his surveying work for Lord Granville during the French and Indian War. In 1770 Caswell was appointed Speaker of the House and the author summarizes Caswell's legislative career into four categories; trade and industry, court system reforms, financing public defense, and humanitarian efforts.