Benjamin·Franklin (January 17,1706-April 17,1790) was one of the founding fathers of the United Stat
es. He was
a wise and clever political leader, writher and printer, and a scientist who invented mangy things.
As a scientist,
he was a major figure in the American Enlightenment and the history of physics for his discoveries a
nd theories
regarding electricity. He invented the lightning rod, bifocals, the Franklin stove, a carries odomet
er, and the glass
"armonica". He facilitated many civic organizations, including a fire department and a university.
Franklin helped to write the Declaration of Independence, which he signed, and later the American Co
nstitution.
In 1776 he went to France and persuaded the French to send money and military forces for the America
n
Revolution. Franklin, always proud of his working class roots, became a successful newspaper editor
and printer
in Philadelphia. He also published Poor Richard's Almanach (1732-1757) and The Pennsylvania Gazette.
Franklin
gained international renown as a scientist for his many experiments in electricity and for his many
inventions,
especially the lightning rod. He played a major role in establishing the University of Pennsylvania
and was elected
the first president of the American Philosophical Society. Franklin became a national hero in Americ
a when he
spearheaded the effort to have Parliament repeal the unpopular Stamp Act. For many years he was the
British
postmaster for the colonies, which enabled him to set up the first national communications network.
He was active
in community affairs, colonial and state politics, as well as national and international affairs. F
rom 1785 to 1788, he
served as governor of Pennsylvania. Towards the end of his life, he freed his slaves and became one
of the most
prominent abolitionists.