Benjamin Franklin, a renowned American politician, scientist, and inventor, was born on January 17, 1706, in Boston, Massachusetts. Considered one of the founding fathers of the United States, Franklin was the fifteenth son of Josiah Franklin and Abiah Folger. Growing up, he helped his father in their wax-chandler’s shop, where they made candles and soaps. Additionally, Franklin worked in various other trades, including carpentry, bricklaying, and turning.
At the age of 12, Franklin became an apprentice at his brother’s printing press. It was during this time that he wrote two poems: “The Lighthouse Tragedy” and “The Decemberists.” In 1723, Franklin moved to Philadelphia and began working at a printing press. Two years later, he traveled to England to further his training as a printer at Palmer’s printing company. During his time there, Franklin published his work, “Dissertation on Liberty and Necessity.” In 1726, he returned to Philadelphia and started working as an administrative officer for Denham.
After recovering from pleurisy, Franklin established his own printing company in partnership with Meredith. In 1729, he purchased the newspaper “Pennsylvania Gazette,” which he ran until 1748. Franklin married Deborah Read in 1730, and they had three children together. Throughout his life, Franklin made significant contributions to science and American society.
In the mid-18th century, he became interested in scientific studies while also immersing himself in politics. In 1743, Franklin was elected President of the American Philosophical Society. He dedicated himself to studying electrical phenomena and formulated the principle of conservation of electricity. His most notable work, “Experiments and Observations on Electricity,” resulted from these studies.
In 1752, Franklin famously conducted his kite experiment in Philadelphia, which led to the invention of the lightning rod (the first model is known as the “Lightning Rod Franklin”). He also invented the “Franklin Furnace” or “Pennsylvania Fireplace.” In 1736, Franklin entered politics and was elected to the General Assembly of Philadelphia. Eleven years later, he organized the first volunteer militia in Pennsylvania.
Franklin played a significant role in the process of American independence and represented Pennsylvania in negotiations with Native Americans. He actively participated in the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, working alongside Thomas Jefferson and John Adams. Known for his integrity and efficiency, Franklin was widely admired both in the United States and Europe. He passed away in Philadelphia at the age of 84 on April 17, 1790, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.