Great day to be born! April 18th

Benjamin Franklin was an American polymath who was born on April 18th, 1706, in Boston, Massachusetts. He is widely regarded as one of the Founding Fathers of the United States due to his contributions to the country's early development, particularly in the areas of science, literature, and politics.

Franklin's Early Life

Franklin was born to Josiah Franklin, a soap maker, and Abiah Folger, his second wife. He was the youngest of his father's ten sons and the youngest of his mother's eight children. His family was poor, and Franklin's formal education was cut short when he was only ten years old due to his father's inability to pay for his tuition.

Despite not receiving a formal education, Franklin was an avid reader and learned through books and practical experience. He learned the art of printing from his older brother James, who was a printer in Boston. At the age of 12, Franklin was apprenticed to his brother, and he worked as a printer's apprentice until the age of 17.

Career and Achievements

Franklin left his apprenticeship and moved to Philadelphia, where he found work as a printer. In 1729, he purchased The Pennsylvania Gazette, a weekly newspaper, which he transformed into one of the most popular newspapers in the colonies. He used the newspaper to express his views and ideas on various social and political issues, and it played a crucial role in shaping public opinion in the colonies.

In addition to his work as a printer and publisher, Franklin was also a prolific writer and author. He wrote several works, including Poor Richard's Almanack, which he published annually from 1732 to 1758. The almanac was filled with practical advice, aphorisms, and proverbs that became part of American folklore.

Franklin's scientific work was also groundbreaking. He conducted numerous experiments on electricity and invented several devices, including the lightning rod, which he designed to protect buildings from lightning strikes. His experiments on electricity helped to establish the concept of electric charge and the principle of conservation of charge.

Franklin's political career was also remarkable. He was a delegate to the Continental Congress and played a crucial role in drafting the Declaration of Independence. He was also one of the signers of the document, which established the United States as an independent nation.

In 1776, Franklin was appointed as the United States Ambassador to France. He spent nearly a decade in France, where he secured French support for the American Revolution. His diplomatic efforts were critical in securing a victory for the American colonies.

Personal Life

Franklin was married to Deborah Read, whom he had met in Philadelphia in 1723. They had two children together, Francis and Sarah, but Franklin also had an illegitimate son, William, who he acknowledged and helped raise. Franklin was known for his wit and charm, and he was a popular figure in society circles in both America and Europe.

Death and Legacy

Franklin died on April 17th, 1790, at the age of 84. He was buried in Philadelphia's Christ Church Burial Ground. His legacy continues to inspire people around the world today. His contributions to science, politics, and literature are significant, and his ideas and inventions have shaped the modern world. He is an example of how hard work, determination, and lifelong learning can lead to great achievements.