Benjamin Franklin Male
Politician
January 17, 1706
Boston, Massachusetts Bay Colony, British America0
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Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) was a prominent American politician, inventor, diplomat, and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. He was born on January 17, 1706, in Boston, Massachusetts Bay Colony, to Josiah Franklin and Abiah Folger. Raised in a large family, Franklin had only two years of formal education before becoming an apprentice in his brother's printing shop, where he gained skills that would shape his career as a publisher and writer.
Franklin's early education was largely self-directed, as he devoured books on science, philosophy, and political theory. In 1729, he purchased the Pennsylvania Gazette, which he transformed into one of the most influential newspapers in the American colonies. He also gained fame through his annual Poor Richard's Almanack, filled with wit, practical advice, and proverbs that remain well-known today.
As a statesman, Benjamin Franklin played a central role in American independence. He helped draft the Declaration of Independence in 1776, served as U.S. ambassador to France, and was a delegate at the Constitutional Convention of 1787. His diplomacy in securing French support was critical to the Revolutionary War's success. Beyond politics, Franklin was also an inventor, credited with the lightning rod, bifocal glasses, and advancements in electricity.
Franklin's legacy endures as a symbol of American ingenuity, civic responsibility, and diplomacy. His contributions to science, government, and culture make him one of the most influential figures in U.S. history, remembered for his practical wisdom, innovative spirit, and pivotal role in founding the nation.
Latest news about Benjamin Franklin
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AP News
USPS issues new Benjamin Franklin stamp for 250th anniversary
To mark its 250th anniversary, the U.S. Postal Service released a redesigned 5-cent Franklin stamp along with a commemorative booklet. The release honors Benjamin Franklin's role as America's first Postmaster General. The event underscored the USPS's historical importance and affirmed its status as a government-agency delivery service.
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Axios
Two rare "Ben Franklin" trees to be planted at Carpenters' Hall
Carpenters' Hall in Philadelphia will host the planting of two rare Franklin trees, a species extinct in the wild. The saplings are being placed at the site which hosted Franklin's Library Company and early Continental Congress gatherings. A ceremony is scheduled for April 25, 2025.
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The Daily Pennsylvanian
Penn celebrates 285 years reflecting on Benjamin Franklin's legacy
As the University of Pennsylvania marks its 285th anniversary, scholars and archivists discussed Benjamin Franklin's vital role in its founding. The article examines how Franklin's educational vision - particularly his belief in practical and technical learning - continues to influence Penn's identity. It also addresses tensions in how his legacy is represented institutionally.
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Press release, Florida Governor's Office
Florida unveils new Benjamin Franklin statue on Constitution Day
Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled a statue of Benjamin Franklin in Franklin County, Florida, to honor Constitution Day as part of the America250 commemoration. The statue celebrates Franklin's enduring influence on constitutional governance. Officials framed the dedication as a reaffirmation of Founders' values ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary.
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Office of Representative Chrissy Houlahan
Bill reintroduced to place Benjamin Franklin statue in U.S. Capitol
A bipartisan bill was reintroduced to install a statue of Benjamin Franklin along the Capitol tour route before the end of 2026. The proposal coincides with America's upcoming 250th anniversary. Sponsors argue Franklin's influence on the founding documents justifies his prominent commemoration.
Frequently Asked Questions about Benjamin Franklin
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Who was Benjamin Franklin?
Benjamin Franklin was an American politician, inventor, writer, and diplomat. He was a Founding Father of the United States and played a major role in drafting the Declaration of Independence.
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When was Benjamin Franklin born?
Benjamin Franklin was born on January 17, 1706, in Boston, Massachusetts Bay Colony, which was part of British America at the time.
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When did Benjamin Franklin die?
Benjamin Franklin died on April 17, 1790, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at the age of 84.
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What is Benjamin Franklin most famous for?
Benjamin Franklin is most famous for being a U.S. Founding Father, his work on the Declaration of Independence, his diplomacy in France, and his scientific inventions like the lightning rod.
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What inventions did Benjamin Franklin create?
Benjamin Franklin invented the lightning rod, bifocal glasses, and the Franklin stove. He also made important discoveries in electricity and meteorology.
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Did Benjamin Franklin sign the Constitution?
Yes, Benjamin Franklin was a delegate at the Constitutional Convention of 1787 and signed the United States Constitution.
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Did Benjamin Franklin sign the Declaration of Independence?
Yes, Benjamin Franklin was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and helped draft the document.
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What role did Benjamin Franklin play in the American Revolution?
During the American Revolution, Benjamin Franklin served as a diplomat to France. His efforts helped secure French military and financial support crucial to American victory.
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What was Poor Richard's Almanack?
Poor Richard's Almanack was a yearly publication written by Benjamin Franklin under the pseudonym Richard Saunders, filled with proverbs, weather forecasts, and advice.
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What was Benjamin Franklin's contribution to science?
Benjamin Franklin contributed to the study of electricity, famously conducting the kite experiment. He coined terms such as 'battery' and 'conductor' and improved scientific understanding of electricity.
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Where is Benjamin Franklin buried?
Benjamin Franklin is buried in Christ Church Burial Ground in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where his grave is a popular historic site.
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Did Benjamin Franklin have formal education?
Benjamin Franklin had only two years of formal schooling. He was largely self-taught, reading extensively and apprenticing in a printing shop.
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When was Benjamin Franklin born?
Born on January 17, 1706
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What is Benjamin Franklin best known for?
Benjamin Franklin is known as a Politician from United States.
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How old is Benjamin Franklin?
Benjamin Franklin is 84 years old.
