Benjamin Franklin

18th Century

1706 – 1790 · American

Inventor, Diplomat & Wit

2 lessons on the calendar

Jan 17

Benjamin Franklin Born

1706 CE

Apr 17

Benjamin Franklin Dies in Philadelphia

1790 CE

About

Benjamin Franklin was a polymath who helped shape American democracy as a Founding Father while also revolutionizing our understanding of electricity. Printer, author, inventor, scientist, and diplomat, he negotiated the crucial French alliance that helped win American independence.

Key Facts

Proved lightning is electricity with his famous kite experiment (1752)

Helped draft the Declaration of Independence

Negotiated the Treaty of Paris (1783) ending the Revolutionary War

Founded America's first public library and fire department

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