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Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin was an American polymath who played a crucial role in the early history of the United States. Born in 1706, Franklin was a leading author, printer, political theorist, politician, freemason, postmaster, scientist, inventor, humorist, civic activist, statesman, and diplomat. He is best known for his discoveries and theories regarding electricity, as well as his involvement in the drafting of the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. Franklin's contributions to science, politics, and society have left a lasting legacy.

Creation Time:2024-05-16 15 key nodes English

The Timeline

1706 — 1790

  1. 1706

    Birth of Benjamin Franklin

    Benjamin Franklin was born on January 17, 1706, in Boston, Massachusetts, to Josiah Franklin and Abiah Folger.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 1743

    Founding of the American Philosophical Society

    Benjamin Franklin founded the American Philosophical Society to promote scientific knowledge and research in the American colonies.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.
  11. 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.
  12. 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.
  13. 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.
  14. 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.
  15. 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.

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