Samuel Ward (Rhode Island politician)

Samuel Ward (1725-1776) was an American politician who served as a delegate to the Continental Congress and as Governor of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.

Ward was born in Newport, Rhode Island, to Richard Ward, also a former Governor of Rhode Island, and Mary (Tillinghast) Ward. He graduated from Harvard College in 1743. He became a successful merchant, engaging in trade with the West Indies and Europe.

Ward entered Rhode Island politics in the 1750s, becoming a prominent member of the "Newport Party," which generally favored a more aggressive stance against British policies. He served as a delegate to the Rhode Island General Assembly and was a vocal opponent of British taxation and regulation.

He served as Governor of Rhode Island from 1762 to 1763 and again from 1765 to 1767. His governorship was marked by intense political rivalry with Stephen Hopkins, leader of the "Providence Party." The two men represented opposing factions within the colony, leading to frequent disputes and elections.

In 1774, Ward was elected as a delegate to the First Continental Congress. He continued to serve in the Second Continental Congress in 1775 and 1776. He was a strong advocate for independence and played a significant role in the debates leading up to the Declaration of Independence.

Samuel Ward died of smallpox in Philadelphia on March 26, 1776, while still serving in the Continental Congress. He is buried in the Christ Church Burial Ground in Philadelphia. He is remembered for his commitment to colonial rights and his contribution to the early stages of the American Revolution. His son, Samuel Ward Jr., served as a colonel in the Continental Army.