Christopher Greenup, born in Fairfax County, Virginia, around 1750, pursued legal studies under Colonel Charles Binns and served as a lieutenant in the American Revolutionary War. Post-war, he settled in Lincoln County, Kentucky, where he engaged in land speculation and practiced law. Greenup held various positions, including clerk of the town's trustees and founding member of the Danville Political Club. He represented Fayette County in the Virginia House of Delegates and served in the U.S. House of Representatives and the Kentucky Senate. Greenup also acted as clerk of the state senate and served as governor of Kentucky from 1804 to 1808, during which he supported the establishment of the Bank of Kentucky and the Ohio Canal Company.

Christopher Greenup's political philosophy reveals a blend of local economic pragmatism and regional security vigilance. He championed the establishment of the Bank of Kentucky and the Ohio Canal Company, demonstrating a commitment to fostering economic growth through state-sponsored initiatives. However, his legislative efforts to reform the militia, courts, and penal systems during his governorship remained unfulfilled, suggesting a struggle to balance local interests with broader governance reforms. His response to the Burr conspiracy, deploying the Kentucky militia, highlights a calculated approach to regional defense, balancing security concerns with state interests.