Thomas Heyward, Jr. was an American Founding Father and signer of the Declaration of Independence. Born on July 28, 1746 in South Carolina, he was a lawyer, planter, and judge. Heyward was active in the Revolutionary cause and represented South Carolina in the Continental Congress. He also signed the Articles of Confederation. During the war, he was captured by the British and held as a prisoner for about a year. After the Revolution, he returned to his legal and political work in South Carolina. He died in 1809 and is remembered for his role in securing American independence.