Arthur Middleton was an American Founding Father and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Born in South Carolina on June 26, 1742, he was a wealthy planter and strong supporter of American independence. Middleton was active in revolutionary politics and replaced his father in the Continental Congress in 1776. During the Revolutionary War, he was captured by the British in 1780 and held as a prisoner until exchanged in 1781. Known for his patriotism and leadership, he continued to serve in public life until his death in 1787.