The Washington Post / Bill WEBSTER

John Hancock was the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence in 1776. According to legend, he wrote his name VERY LARGE and clear so that King George III of Britain, from which the American colonies were breaking, could read it without his glasses.

The incident gave rise to the popular saying “Put your John Hancock here,” meaning “Sign here.”

In fact, Hancock often signed his name in large, elaborate script. So he wasn’t challenging the king with his fancy writing. But it makes a good story, doesn’t it?