George Clinton, born on the 26th of July, 1739, in Little Britain, Ulster County, New York, was of English extraction, his father having emigrated to this country in 1729. In early life he evinced his love of enterprise and adventure by leaving home to sail in a privateer. Upon his return he joined the English troops in the French and Indian War; but when peace was restored, he left the army and entered upon the study of the law. Gaining reputation in his profession, he was chosen in 1768 a representative to the Colonial Assembly and afterward, in 1775, to the Continental Congress. He voted for the Declaration of Independence; but the invasion of New York by the enemy, and the trouble and excitement engendered by the Loyalists, caused him to be summoned home before that famous document was ready for the signatures. Having been appointed brigadier-general of the New York Militia in July, 1776, he served in that capacity until the 25th of March, 1777, when he was transferred to the Continental army with the same rank; and the unfinished defences along the Hudson were committed to his care. On the 6th of October these fortresses were stormed, and at last, on account of their unfinished condition and the smallness of the garrison, had to be abandoned, General Clinton and many of the Americans escaping under cover of the night.

General Clinton was elected first Governor of New York State in 1777. With great executive and much military ability, he continued to fill his doubly responsible position; and the public records of that period bear witness to the extent and value of his services. In 1786, a large body of malcontents, having been discomfited in Massachusetts, took refuge in New York. Governor Clinton marched promptly to their encampment with two regiments, and in less than twelve hours the rebel army was dispersed and the leaders brought to justice. In 1788, he presided at the convention at Poughkeepsie when the federal Constitution was ratified. After five years of private life, he was again elected to the Legislature, and in 1801 was again chosen governor, holding that office until 1804, when he was elected to the vice-presidency of the United States. He filled this office until his death, which occurred in Washington on the 20th of April, 1812.