Birth of Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin was born on January 17, 1706, in Boston, Massachusetts, to Josiah Franklin and Abiah Folger.
1706
1718
Benjamin Franklin Apprentices as a Printer
At the age of 12, Benjamin Franklin became an apprentice to his brother James, who was a printer. This experience helped Franklin develop his skills in writing and printing.
1723
Benjamin Franklin Runs Away to Philadelphia
At the age of 17, Benjamin Franklin ran away from his apprenticeship in Boston and moved to Philadelphia, seeking new opportunities.
1729
Benjamin Franklin Purchases The Pennsylvania Gazette
Benjamin Franklin bought The Pennsylvania Gazette, which became one of the most successful newspapers in the American colonies under his management.
1731
Founding of the Library Company of Philadelphia
Benjamin Franklin founded the Library Company of Philadelphia, the first subscription library in America, which allowed members to borrow books.
1733
Publication of Poor Richard's Almanack
Benjamin Franklin began publishing Poor Richard's Almanack, which became widely popular for its witty sayings and practical advice.
1743
Founding of the American Philosophical Society
Benjamin Franklin founded the American Philosophical Society to promote scientific knowledge and research in the American colonies.
1752
Benjamin Franklin's Kite Experiment
Benjamin Franklin conducted his famous kite experiment, proving that lightning is a form of electricity and leading to the invention of the lightning rod.
1757
Benjamin Franklin Appointed as Colonial Agent in London
Benjamin Franklin was appointed as the colonial agent for Pennsylvania in London, where he represented colonial interests for several years.
1776
Signing of the Declaration of Independence
Benjamin Franklin was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, helping to draft the document that declared the American colonies' independence from Britain.
1778
Benjamin Franklin Negotiates the Treaty of Alliance with France
Benjamin Franklin played a key role in negotiating the Treaty of Alliance with France, securing French support for the American Revolutionary War.
1783
Signing of the Treaty of Paris
Benjamin Franklin was one of the American negotiators who signed the Treaty of Paris, which ended the American Revolutionary War and recognized American independence.
1785
Return to America
Benjamin Franklin returned to America after serving as a diplomat in France for several years, where he was celebrated as a national hero.
1787
Participation in the Constitutional Convention
Benjamin Franklin was a delegate at the Constitutional Convention, where he played a significant role in drafting the United States Constitution.
1790
Death of Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin passed away on April 17, 1790, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He left behind a legacy as one of America's founding fathers and a pioneer in multiple fields.
