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Benjamin Franklin: The First Civilized American

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Benjamin Franklin, The First Civilized American Benjamin Franklin: The First Civilized American

Benjamin Franklin was a towering figure in American history. He was a scientist, inventor, statesman, and diplomat. He played a major role in the American Revolution and the founding of the United States. He was also one of the most influential thinkers of his time.

In his book, *Benjamin Franklin: The First Civilized American*, H.W. Brands argues that Franklin was the first American to fully embrace the ideals of the Enlightenment. Franklin believed in the power of reason, science, and progress. He also believed in the importance of individual liberty and self-reliance.

Benjamin Franklin: The First Civilized American

by Phillips Russell

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4980 KB
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Print length	:	340 pages
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Brands' book is a fascinating and insightful look at one of the most important figures in American history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the American Revolution, the founding of the United States, or the Enlightenment.

The Early Years

Benjamin Franklin was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1706. His father was a candle maker and soap boiler. Franklin had 17 siblings. He received only two years of formal education, but he was a voracious reader and autodidact.

At the age of 12, Franklin was apprenticed to his brother James, a printer. Franklin hated the printing trade, but he learned a great deal about the world from reading the books that he printed.

In 1723, at the age of 17, Franklin ran away from home and went to Philadelphia. He worked as a printer and journalist. In 1729, he founded the *Pennsylvania Gazette*, which became one of the most influential newspapers in the colonies.

The Scientist and Inventor

Franklin was a brilliant scientist and inventor. He made important contributions to the fields of electricity, optics, and meteorology.

In 1752, Franklin conducted his famous kite experiment, which proved that lightning is a form of electricity. He also invented the lightning rod, which protects buildings from lightning strikes.

Franklin also made important contributions to the field of optics. He invented the bifocals and the Franklin stove.

The Statesman and Diplomat

Franklin was a gifted statesman and diplomat. He played a major role in the American Revolution and the founding of the United States.

In 1775, Franklin was appointed Postmaster General of the colonies. He also served as a delegate to the Continental Congress.

In 1776, Franklin was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. He also helped to draft the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution of the United States.

Franklin was also a skilled diplomat. He negotiated the Treaty of Paris in 1783, which ended the American Revolution. He also served as the first U.S. ambassador to France.

The Enlightenment Thinker

Franklin was one of the most influential thinkers of his time. He was a strong advocate for the ideals of the Enlightenment.

Franklin believed in the power of reason, science, and progress. He also believed in the importance of individual liberty and self-reliance.

Franklin's writings on politics, economics, and science had a profound impact on American thought. He was one of the most influential figures in the American Enlightenment.

The Legacy of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin was one of the most important figures in American history. He was a scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat, and thinker. He played a major role in the American Revolution and the founding of the United States. He was also one of the most influential thinkers of his time.

Franklin's legacy is still felt today. His ideas about science, reason, and progress continue to shape American thought. He is also remembered as one of the greatest diplomats and statesmen in American history.

Benjamin Franklin was a remarkable man. He was a brilliant scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat, and thinker. He played a major role in the American Revolution and the founding of the United States. He was also one of the most influential thinkers of his time.

*Benjamin Franklin: The First Civilized American* is a fascinating and insightful look at one of the most important figures in American history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the American Revolution, the founding of the United States, or the Enlightenment.

Benjamin Franklin: The First Civilized American

by Phillips Russell

5 out of 5