Benjamin Franklin
/ˌbendʒəmɪn ˈfræŋklɪn/
/ˌbendʒəmɪn ˈfræŋklɪn/
- (1706-90) one of America's most famous Founding Fathers. He was a wise and clever political leader, writer and printer, and a scientist who invented many things. Franklin helped to write the Declaration of Independence, which he signed, and later the American Constitution. In 1776 he went to France and persuaded the French to send money and military forces for the American Revolution. Franklin proved that lightning is electricity by flying a kite in a storm, and his inventions included the Franklin Stove. He also published Poor Richard's Almanack (1732-57).“In this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.”