LEE, RICHARD HENRY

(1732-94), American statesman; b. Str at ford, Va. He received his education in England and returned to his native State in 1752. He served as a member of the Virginia House of Burge es, 1761-88. An ardent patriot, he took an active part in events leading up to the American Revolution. From 1774 till 780 he was a member of | the Continental Congre , and was the author of that part of the Declaration of Independence which read: ‘These united Colonies are and of right ought to be free and independent states, and all political connection between them and the state of Great Britain is and ought to be totally di olved.’ He opposed the ratification of the Federal Constitution, but later modified his views and supported the administration of Washington. He was a member of the United States senate, 1789-92, and was the author of the Tenth Amendment te the Constitution.