I
The Life
Philadelphia, circa 1778
Born the fifteenth of seventeen children to a Boston tallow chandler, Benjamin Franklin rose through industry and intellect to become the most celebrated American of the eighteenth century. A printer's apprentice at twelve, a published author at sixteen, and master of his own press by twenty-two, he embodied the self-made ideal that would come to define the American character.
His restless curiosity knew no bounds. He charted the Gulf Stream, invented the lightning rod and bifocal spectacles, established the first lending library and volunteer fire company, and founded the institution that would become the University of Pennsylvania. Yet it was in the realm of statecraft that he left his deepest mark.
"Well done is better than well said."
As diplomat to France, he secured the alliance that won American independence. As delegate to the Constitutional Convention, he lent his prestige to the fragile new republic. He was, in the words of a contemporary, "the only man who could have united the colonies."
II
The Works
Pennsylvania Gazette
Acquired and transformed into the most successful newspaper in the colonies, using it as a platform for civic improvement and political discourse.
Library Company of Philadelphia
Founded the first subscription lending library in America, making books accessible to those who could not afford private collections.
Kite Experiment
Demonstrated the electrical nature of lightning, leading to the invention of the lightning rod and earning international scientific acclaim.
Declaration of Independence
Served on the Committee of Five and applied his editorial hand to Jefferson's draft, helping forge the document that announced a new nation.
Franco-American Alliance
Negotiated the Treaty of Alliance with France, securing the military and financial support that proved decisive in the Revolutionary War.
III
The Thirteen Virtues
At twenty, Franklin conceived a plan for moral perfection, tracking his adherence to thirteen virtues in a small book he carried always.
Temperance
Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation.
Silence
Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself.
Order
Let all your things have their places.
Resolution
Resolve to perform what you ought.
Frugality
Make no expense but to do good.
Industry
Lose no time; be always employed in something useful.
Sincerity
Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly.
Justice
Wrong none by doing injuries or omitting benefits.
Moderation
Avoid extremes; forbear resenting injuries.
Cleanliness
Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, clothes, or habitation.
Tranquility
Be not disturbed at trifles or accidents.
Chastity
Rarely use venery but for health or offspring.
Humility
Imitate Jesus and Socrates.