The “Founding Fathers” of the United States generally refer to the key political leaders who were involved in the American Revolution and the formation of the United States as an independent nation. The most prominent Founding Fathers are:

1. George Washington – He was the first President of the United States, commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War, and presided over the Constitutional Convention.

2. Thomas Jefferson – He was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, the second President of the United States, and the founder of the University of Virginia.

3. John Adams – He was the first Vice President and the second President of the United States. He was also a prominent diplomat and political theorist.

4. Benjamin Franklin – He was a polymath who was a leading author, printer, political theorist, politician, postmaster, scientist, inventor, civic activist, and diplomat.

5. James Madison – He is known as the “Father of the Constitution” for his pivotal role in drafting and promoting the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

6. Alexander Hamilton – He was the first Secretary of the Treasury, a renowned economist, and one of the Founding Fathers who helped shape the new nation’s financial system.

7. John Jay – He was an American statesman, Founding Father, diplomat, and the first Chief Justice of the United States.

These individuals, along with several others, played crucial roles in the American Revolution, the creation of the Declaration of Independence, the drafting of the U.S. Constitution, and the establishment of the new nation’s government and institutions.