GOP 101: Benjamin Franklin

The U. S. Constitution doesn't guarantee happiness, only the pursuit of it. You have to catch up with it yourself.

Benjamin Franklin

Birth: January 17, 1706

Location: Boston, Massachusetts

Death: April 17, 1790

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Educated at the Boston Latin School; honorary degrees from Harvard, Yale, Oxford University in England, and the University of St. Andrews in Scotland

Profession: Inventor, Politician

Major accomplishments:

• 1752 - Kite and key experiment

• 1775 - Elected to represent Pennsylvania in the Second Continental Congress and as Postmaster General

• 1776 - One of the five drafters, and a signer, of the Declaration of Independence

• March 1, 1781 to March 4, 1789 - The Articles of Confederation were enforced, which Franklin helped draft

• 1776 - First Ambassador to France

• 1783 - Assisted with peace treaty with England

Benjamin Franklin, an avid writer who took up the trade as an apprentice for his brother, would grow up to help draft the document that founded a nation. Franklin was also a scientist who invented items we still use today. Readers around the world are grateful for his discovery of the bi-focal glass. Other inventions include the swim fin, the lightening rod, street lighting, the odometer, and daylight savings time.

Benjamin Franklin, despite his lack of a formal education, is one of the most influential of the founding fathers. His skill of diplomacy led his adventures through England, France, and the early stages of the United States. He believed in creating things to help make everyday life better, and then sharing his discoveries with the world. His wisdom left a legacy to be admired. His inventions continue to impact our world. 

By SB

© 2013 BiGWand. All rights reserved.