Benjamin Franklin is one of our most popular founding fathers. For most of us, learning about Benjamin Franklin’s inventions and contributions is part of almost every student’s grammar school education. And while most grow up to have great reverence for Benjamin Franklin, a lot of his contributions are still unknown to many. For those fascinated with Benjamin Franklin, the Smithsonian Magazine offers a fascinating article on the man, his inventions and his contributions. You can read the article today by visiting our main website. Below, you will find some interesting information on one of our most important founding fathers.
Growing Up in Massachusetts
Benjamin Franklin was born in 1706, he was the fifteenth child of a total of 17 and the youngest son. Growing up in Massachusetts during the American colonial period was not easy. He was only able to attend one year of formal education, however his love of the written word would stay with him for the rest of his life. His first job was as an apprentice at his brother’s printing shop and as he learned the trade, he dreamed of having his own printing shop. At the age of 17, he moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This blossoming city was where Benjamin Franklin found much inspiration and began a thriving printing shop and career as a writer, philosopher, inventor and statesman.
His Early Life as an Author
In 1733, Benjamin Franklin began publishing his soon to be famous Poor Richard’s Almanck. This almanack is where many of Benjamin Franklin’s witty sayings such as “an apple a day keeps the doctor away and “A penny saved is two pence dear” which is actually misquoted to “a penny saved is a penny earned” were first printed. In addition to his almanack, he also published a few books including: The Way to Wealth.
Benjamin Franklin as an Inventor
Besides being a famous author and soon to be a statesman and founding father, Benjamin Franklin also was very curious about science. Throughout his life he made many observations and invented many items that we still use today including: the lighting rod, glass harmonica, Franklin stove, bifocal glasses and the urinary catheter. In addition, he also started the first fire department (called a fire company), the first public library and the first hospital.
Read More About Benjamin Franklin
If you find Benjamin Franklin interesting, visit the Smithsonian Magazine’s website today to read their article on this incredible American. You can visit their site at: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/
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