Most Americans know about Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams. Many are also familiar with Sam Adams and John Hancock. But how much do you known about the other 51 men who risked their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor to declare independence from Great Britain 243 years ago.

Who was the signer who completed a Paul Revere-like ride to arrive in time to vote for independence and possibly save the entire effort? Which signers didn't actually support independence? And which ones suffered greatly as a result of the revolution?

Listen to the podcast for a fascinating discussion with Joseph D'Agnese, co-author of "Signing Their Lives Away: The Fame and Misfortune of the Men Who Signed the Declaration of Independence."