Author: Hopkinson, Joseph
Biography:
Hopkinson, Joseph (1770-1842: WBIS)
Son of Ann (Borden) Hopkinson and Francis Hopkinson (q.v.), born in Philadelphia and educated like his father at the University of Pennsylvania, he was called to the bar in 1791. He became a brilliant courtroom lawyer, known for enlivening his speeches with literary "decorations." In 1798 he composed "Hail Columbia," a patriotic song that has since become famous. He ran for Congress as a Federalist and served two terms, 1815-19, but then returned to his law practice. In 1828 he was appointed federal district Judge for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, following in his father's footsteps; he held the position until his death. Among his landmark rulings was one that "established the foundations of modern American copyright law" (ANBO) in 1833. He married Emily Mifflin in 1794; they had nine children. He died in Philadelphia. (ANBO 24 Apr. 2019)
Other Names:
- Hopkinson