Caesar Rodney was born on October 7, 1728, in Kent County, Delaware. He grew up on a family farm after his father passed away when Caesar was young. Although he had little formal education, Rodney learned through reading and working hard. He became interested in public service and politics early in his life.
Rodney began his career as a sheriff and later held several important government positions, such as judge and member of the Delaware Assembly. He was known for his strong sense of duty and leadership. During the years leading up to the American Revolution, Rodney became a supporter of independence from Britain. He attended the First and Second Continental Congress meetings, where leaders from the colonies discussed how to respond to British rule.
On the night of July 1, 1776, Caesar Rodney received an urgent message while in Delaware. The Delaware delegation at the Continental Congress was deadlocked on the vote for independence—one member supported it, and the other opposed. Rodney, who had been home due to illness, knew his vote would decide the issue. Despite suffering from cancer and asthma, he mounted his horse and rode more than 70 miles through pounding rain, strong winds, and muddy roads. The journey lasted almost overnight and included dangerous conditions, including lightning storms. Rodney arrived in Philadelphia on July 2, just in time to cast his vote for independence. His decision broke the tie and ensured that Delaware supported the Declaration of Independence, making his ride one of the most dramatic and important acts in America’s fight for freedom.
Rodney continued serving his state during the war, even while suffering from poor health due to cancer and asthma. He became president (governor) of Delaware from 1778 to 1781, working to support the Continental Army. Caesar Rodney died on June 26, 1784. Today, he is remembered as a patriot who risked everything for freedom, and his famous ride is celebrated as a symbol of courage and determination.
1. Which statement BEST explains why Caesar Rodney’s ride was so important?
2. What can you infer about Caesar Rodney’s character from his actions on July 1–2, 1776?
3. Which sentence BEST states the main idea of the passage?
4. How did Rodney’s early life prepare him for leadership?
5. Which detail BEST supports Rodney’s determination despite obstacles?
6. Compare Rodney’s role during the Revolution to later life. What is one similarity and one difference?
7. Why is Caesar Rodney remembered as a patriot today?