Continental Congressman, Rhode Island Governor. He studied law, became a law advocate of considerable reputation and was an active patriot of Rhode Island during the American Revolution. Being a strong supporter of the rights of the colonists, when the independence of his country was once declared, he lent all his energies to upholding the declaration and was a chief advocate of the Articles of Confederation. As a member of the committee sent by the Rhode Island General Assembly in September 1776, he informed General Washington of the condition of the colony and his views on the best method to help defend it. Elected a member of the Second Continental Congress, he served (1778-80, 1782-83). In 1786, he was elected the Third Governor of Rhode Island and served until 1790. While serving as Governor, Collins cast the deciding vote in the Rhode Island Senate to form a convention to vote upon the adoption or rejection of the Federal Constitution. After his term as governor, he retired and enjoyed a private life on his farm until his death at age 78.
Continental Congressman, Rhode Island Governor. He studied law, became a law advocate of considerable reputation and was an active patriot of Rhode Island during the American Revolution. Being a strong supporter of the rights of the colonists, when the independence of his country was once declared, he lent all his energies to upholding the declaration and was a chief advocate of the Articles of Confederation. As a member of the committee sent by the Rhode Island General Assembly in September 1776, he informed General Washington of the condition of the colony and his views on the best method to help defend it. Elected a member of the Second Continental Congress, he served (1778-80, 1782-83). In 1786, he was elected the Third Governor of Rhode Island and served until 1790. While serving as Governor, Collins cast the deciding vote in the Rhode Island Senate to form a convention to vote upon the adoption or rejection of the Federal Constitution. After his term as governor, he retired and enjoyed a private life on his farm until his death at age 78.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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