Benjamin Franklin (1706 – 1790) was an American polymath and one of the “founding fathers” of the United States. Franklin was an author, printer, politician, postmaster, scientist, inventor, humorist, civic activist, statesman, and diplomat. He is known for his discoveries and theories regarding electricity. He also founded many civic organizations, including the Library Company, Philadelphia’s first fire department and the University of Pennsylvania. At the age of 23, Franklin became a successful newspaper editor and printer in Philadelphia, where he published his Poor Richard’s Almanac, under the pseudonym “Richard Saunders” from 1732 to 1758. He was active in community affairs and colonial and state politics, as well as national and international affairs, and in June 1776, he was appointed a member of the Committee of Five that drafted the Declaration of Independence.

Quotes by Benjamin Franklin…