Carter Braxton was the richest of all the signers, but he died in debt.  Affluence came to Braxton through inheritance and he had the opportunity of rich youth to lead a life of dissipation and conviviality.  But he formed a warm fondness for Patrick Henry Henry and Jefferson, and at their suggestion entered the Virginia Assembly in 1761.  The famous "Liberty or death" speech of Henry's quickened the patriotism of Braxton and he organized a local military company, determined to array himself and his little army against the enemy.  The cool-headedness of Washington overcame his ardor, however, and he accepted a seat in Congress.  Soon after the Declaration had been approved he entered upon commercial life.  His first move was to place his entire fortune in ships with which he hoped to engage in exporting and importing relations with France.  History says the vessels were all captured or destroyed and Braxton found himself in poverty.  His lands were seized by the sheriff, his slaves were sold, law suits galore were directed at him, and he became so involved in debt he died a broken-hearted man.