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2024-09-22 08:21:10

Benjamin Franklin

American polymath and Founding Father
American polymath and Founding Father

Benjamin Franklin was a leading writer, scientist, inventor, and statesman. He played a key role in the American Revolution, serving as a diplomat and ambassador. Franklin's achievements include inventions like the lightning rod and bifocals, as well as his contributions to the Declaration of Independence. He was also known for his efforts in abolishing slavery and promoting education for African Americans.

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1706
Birth of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and inventor of the lightning rod, was born in 1706.

1706-01-17
Birth of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin, the statesman, publisher, scientist, and diplomat, was born on January 17, 1706.

1706-01-17
Birth of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, was born on this day. He was a renowned polymath, author, printer, political theorist, postmaster, scientist, inventor, civic activist, statesman, and diplomat.

1706-04-17
Birth of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, was born on January 17, 1706 in Boston, Massachusetts.

1714
Benjamin Franklin Enters Grammar School

At the age of eight, Benjamin Franklin enters the Grammar School.

1715
Final Year of Schooling for Benjamin Franklin

In 1715, Benjamin Franklin completed his final formal year of schooling and also heard Increase Mather preach.

1716
Becomes assistant in the tallow-chandlery business

In 1716, he started working as an assistant in the tallow-chandlery business, which was owned by his father.

1717
Benjamin Franklin's First Invention

At the age of 11, Benjamin Franklin invented a pair of fins to wear on his hands while swimming.

1718
Birth of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin was born in Boston, Massachusetts.

1720
Benjamin Franklin's Love for Learning

Benjamin Franklin had a strong love for learning from a young age.

1721
Brother James Franklin Starts Publishing The New England Courant

In 1721, Benjamin Franklin's brother James started publishing The New England Courant. There was also a smallpox epidemic in Boston and controversy over vaccination, and Franklin became 'a thorough Deist'.

1722
Benjamin's Dedication to Learning

Benjamin Franklin's love for reading and studying led him to give up many other activities, including attending church, in order to have more time for learning.

1723
Moved to Philadelphia

Benjamin Franklin moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

1724
Benjamin Franklin persuaded by Governor Keith to establish himself independently

Benjamin Franklin is persuaded by Governor Keith to establish himself independently, which leads him to go to London to buy type and work at his trade there. During this time, he publishes 'Dissertation on Liberty and Necessity, Pleasure and Pain.'

1725
Franklin's Employment at John Watts' Print Shop

After leaving Samuel Palmer's print shop, Franklin joins the larger shop of John Watts. This transition marks a pivotal moment in Franklin's career as a printer.

1726
Benjamin Franklin becomes manager of Keimer's printing-house

After returning to Philadelphia and serving as a clerk in a dry goods store, Benjamin Franklin becomes the manager of Keimer's printing-house.

1727
Benjamin Franklin founds the Junto, or 'Leathern Apron' Club

Benjamin Franklin founds the Junto, also known as the 'Leathern Apron' Club.

1728-06
Establishes Philadelphia Printing Partnership

In June 1728, Benjamin Franklin establishes a printing partnership with Hugh Meredith in Philadelphia and rents a building to serve as a home and printshop.

1729
Publication of Benjamin Franklin's First Paper

In 1729, Benjamin Franklin had his first paper titled 'Articles of Belief and Acts of Religion' published, marking the beginning of his significant contributions to the world of printing and publishing.

1730-09-01
Marriage to Deborah Read Rogers

On September 1st, 1730, Benjamin Franklin takes Deborah Read Rogers as his common law wife.

1731-07-01
Drew up the Library Company's Articles of Association

On July 1st, 1731, Benjamin Franklin draws up the Library Company's articles of association, establishing the first lending library in the country.

1732-12-28
Publishes First Edition of 'Poor Richard's Almanack'

On December 28, 1732, Benjamin Franklin publishes the first edition of 'Poor Richard's Almanack'.

1733
Francis Folger Franklin Baptism at Christ Church

Francis Folger Franklin, the son of Benjamin Franklin, is baptized at the Anglican Christ Church in Philadelphia. This event is attended by Deborah, while Benjamin had stopped attending a Presbyterian church the year before.

1734
Election as Grand Master of the Grand Masonic Lodge

Benjamin Franklin is elected as the Grand Master of the Grand Masonic Lodge of Masons of Pennsylvania. He also buys property on Philadelphia's Market Street, which will eventually house his print shop and retail space, forming Franklin Court.

1735
Death of Brother James Franklin

Benjamin Franklin's brother, James Franklin, dies. In response, Benjamin sends his widow 500 copies of Poor Richard for free so she can make money by selling them. Additionally, Andrew Hamilton defends John Peter Zenger in a seminal Freedom of the Press case, and will be a patron of Franklin's.

1736
Appointment as Clerk of the PA Assembly

Benjamin Franklin is named Clerk of the Pennsylvania Assembly. He also prints currency for New Jersey, organizes the Union Fire Company, and prints 'A Treaty of Friendship held with the Chiefs of the Six Nations at Philadelphia'. This year also marks the first public use of the Pennsylvania State House (Independence Hall).

1737
Appointed Postmaster of Philadelphia

In 1737, Benjamin Franklin was appointed as the postmaster of Philadelphia.

1739
Franklin's House Robbed

In 1739, Franklin's house was robbed in Philadelphia.

1740
Invented the Franklin Stove

In 1740, Benjamin Franklin invented the Franklin stove, a significant contribution to heating technology.

1741
Published the first edition of 'The General Magazine and Historical Chronicle'

In 1741, Benjamin Franklin published the first edition of 'The General Magazine and Historical Chronicle,' which was one of America's earliest magazines. Unfortunately, it failed after only six issues.

1742
Invention of the Franklin Stove

Benjamin Franklin invents the open, or 'Franklin,' stove in 1742.

1743-09
Birth of Daughter Sarah 'Sally' Franklin Bache

In September 1743, Benjamin Franklin's daughter Sarah 'Sally' Franklin Bache was born. She later became a prominent figure in American society.

1744
Establishment of the American Philosophical Society

In 1744, Benjamin Franklin establishes the American Philosophical Society.

1745
Death of Josiah Franklin

In 1745, Josiah Franklin, the father of Benjamin Franklin, passes away, marking a significant loss in Benjamin's life.

1746
Publication of 'Plain Truth' Pamphlet and Military Company Formation

Benjamin Franklin publishes a pamphlet called 'Plain Truth' in 1746, emphasizing the necessity for disciplined defense, and also forms a military company. He begins electrical experiments during this time.

1747
Benjamin Franklin's Electrical Tube Experiment

In 1747, Benjamin Franklin conducted an electrical tube experiment, contributing to his growing body of work in the field of electricity and furthering his understanding of electrical phenomena.

1748
Benjamin Franklin's Unofficial Retirement

At the age of 42, Benjamin Franklin became wealthy enough to retire and devoted the remaining 42 years of his life to studying science, devising inventions, and public service.

1749-06
Elaborate Electrical Barbecue Hosted by Benjamin Franklin

In the early summer of 1749, Benjamin Franklin hosted an elaborate electrical barbecue where he showcased various electrical amusements. He killed a turkey by electrical shock, roasted it using the electric jack, and entertained guests with electrified glasses and sparks sent across the river.

1750-12-23
Ben Franklin Attempts to Electrocute a Turkey

On December 23, 1750, Benjamin Franklin attempted to electrocute a turkey as part of his experiments with electricity. This event is a quirky and memorable moment in the history of science, showcasing Franklin's innovative and curious nature.

1750-12-25
Benjamin Franklin's Turkey Electrocution Experiment

In a letter dated 25 December 1750, Benjamin Franklin described his attempt to electrocute a turkey using electricity from large glass jars. However, the experiment went wrong as he inadvertently received the electrical shock himself, causing numbness and soreness for a few days.

1751
Publication of Experiments and Observations on Electricity

Benjamin Franklin published Experiments and Observations on Electricity in 1751.

1752
The Kite Experiment

Benjamin Franklin conducted the famous kite experiment in 1752 to prove that lightning is a form of electricity, which significantly contributed to the understanding of electricity and its applications.

1752
Ben Franklin's Kite Experiment

In 1752, Ben Franklin conducted his famous kite experiment, drawing electricity from lightning. This experiment was crucial in understanding the nature of electricity and its connection to lightning.

1753
Awarded the Copley Medal and Elected a Member of the Royal Society

In 1753, Benjamin Franklin was awarded the Copley Medal for his lightning experiment discovery and was elected as a member of the prestigious Royal Society, recognizing his significant scientific achievements.

1754
Join or Die Political Cartoon

The 'Join or Die' political cartoon, created by Benjamin Franklin in 1754, is a famous symbol of colonial unity and the need for the colonies to join together for mutual defense.

1755
Support for Braddock's Army and Crown Point Expedition

In 1755, Benjamin Franklin pledged his personal property to raise supplies for Braddock's army. He also obtained a grant from the Assembly for the Crown Point expedition and carried through a bill establishing a voluntary militia. Additionally, he was appointed Colonel and took the field.

1757
Franklin in London

Benjamin Franklin traveled to London in 1757 to represent the interests of the American colonies. His time in London was significant in shaping the future of the United States.

1758
Publication of 'The Way to Wealth'

Benjamin Franklin publishes his famous work 'The Way to Wealth' in Philadelphia.

1759
Receives Honorary Degree from University of St. Andrews

Benjamin Franklin is honored with the degree of Doctor of Laws from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, acknowledging his intellectual and academic achievements.

1760
Compromise with Privy Council

Benjamin Franklin secures a decision obliging the Proprietary estates to contribute to the public revenue through a compromise with the Privy Council.

1761
Benjamin Franklin's Glass Armonica Invention

Benjamin Franklin invented the glass armonica, an instrument that replicated the sound of a wet finger rubbed along the rim of a glass. This invention gained considerable popularity and was used by renowned composers like Mozart and Beethoven.

1762
Maps Postal Routes and Invents Glass Armonica

Benjamin Franklin maps postal routes in the colonies and invents the glass armonica, contributing to the improvement of communication and music.

1763
Tour of the northern colonies for inspecting post-offices

Benjamin Franklin embarks on a five months' tour of the northern colonies with the purpose of inspecting the post-offices. This demonstrates his commitment to improving postal services and communication infrastructure.

1764
Advocacy for Pennsylvania Assembly

Benjamin Franklin goes to England to plead the cause of the Assembly against the Proprietaries and remains as the agent for Pennsylvania.

1765
Endeavors to prevent the passage of the Stamp Act

Benjamin Franklin makes efforts to prevent the passage of the Stamp Act, which imposed direct taxes on the American colonies. His opposition to this act reflects his involvement in colonial politics and his stance against taxation without representation.

1766
Supporting Repeal of the Stamp Act

Benjamin Franklin presents evidence in the House of Commons in support of the repeal of the Stamp Act, a significant event in the history of colonial taxation and resistance.

1767
Travels in France and is presented at court

In 1767, Benjamin Franklin traveled to France and was presented at court. This visit was significant in strengthening the ties between France and the American colonies.

1768
Named Colonial Agent for Georgia

Benjamin Franklin is appointed as the Colonial Agent for Georgia, playing a crucial role in representing the colony's interests in Britain.

1769
Named Colonial Agent for New Jersey

Benjamin Franklin is appointed as the Colonial Agent for New Jersey, further expanding his responsibilities in representing colonial interests.

1770
Elected Colonial Agent for Massachusetts

Benjamin Franklin is elected as the Colonial Agent for Massachusetts, demonstrating his growing influence and involvement in colonial affairs.

1771
Began autobiography

In 1771, Benjamin Franklin started writing his autobiography, which later became a classic and influential work in American literature.

1771-03-26
Marriage to Elizabeth Ollive

On March 26, 1771, marries Elizabeth Ollive.

1772
Elected Associe Etranger of the French Academy

In 1772, Benjamin Franklin was elected as an Associe Etranger of the French Academy. This recognition highlighted his intellectual and academic influence beyond the American colonies.

1773
Benjamin Franklin's Reluctance Towards Revolution

Benjamin Franklin was initially reluctant towards full separation from Britain and pushed for peaceful compromise. His stance earned him suspicion from fellow patriots, and he was among the last of the Founding Fathers to publicly support American independence.

1774-11-07
Emigration to England and Legal Separation from Elizabeth Ollive

Meets Benjamin Franklin, emigrates to England, and legally separates from wife Elizabeth.

1774-12-19
Death of Wife Deborah Franklin

On December 19, 1774, Benjamin Franklin's wife, Deborah Franklin, passed away, marking a significant personal loss for him.

1775
Elected as Pennsylvania Delegate to Second Continental Congress

Benjamin Franklin is elected as a Pennsylvania delegate to the Second Continental Congress, where he serves as the chairman of the Pennsylvania Committee of Safety, playing a crucial role in the early stages of the American Revolution.

1775-03-04
Letter to Benjamin Franklin

A letter addressed to Benjamin Franklin on March 4th, 1775.

1776-12-21
Arrival in Paris as Commissioner of Congress

Benjamin Franklin arrives in Paris on December 21st as one of the Commissioners of Congress to the French Court.

1777
Meeting Madame Brillon

Benjamin Franklin meets Madame Brillon, an amour.

1778
Negotiating Treaty of Alliance with France

In 1778, Benjamin Franklin played a key role in negotiating the Treaty of Alliance with France, securing crucial support for the American Revolutionary War and strengthening the relationship between the United States and France.

1778-05-16
Letter to Benjamin Franklin

A letter addressed to Benjamin Franklin on May 16, 1778.

1778-10-24
Letter to Benjamin Franklin

A letter addressed to Benjamin Franklin on October 24, 1778.

1779
Appointed Minister Plenipotentiary to France

In 1779, Benjamin Franklin was appointed as the Minister Plenipotentiary to France, playing a crucial role in securing French support for the American cause during the Revolutionary War.

1780
Appoints Paul Jones commander of the 'Alliance'

In 1780, Benjamin Franklin appointed Paul Jones as the commander of the 'Alliance', a significant decision that impacted the naval operations during the Revolutionary War.

1781-03
Appointment as United States Minister Plenipotentiary in France

In March 1781, Benjamin Franklin was appointed as the United States minister plenipotentiary in France, representing the country in diplomatic matters.

1781-05-28
Correspondence with Benjamin Franklin

Another letter was sent to Benjamin Franklin on May 28, 1781.

1781-06
Request to Return Home

In June 1781, Benjamin Franklin asked Congress for permission to return home, indicating a significant development in his diplomatic service.

1782
Negotiating Peace with Great Britain

In 1782, Benjamin Franklin was instrumental in negotiating peace with Great Britain, marking a significant milestone in ending the American Revolutionary War and establishing diplomatic relations between the United States and Great Britain.

1783
Signing the Treaty of Paris

In 1783, Benjamin Franklin signed the Treaty of Paris, effectively ending the American Revolutionary War and solidifying the United States' independence from Great Britain. He collaborated with John Adams and John Jay as co-signers of the treaty.

1784
Invention of Bifocal Glasses

Benjamin Franklin invented bifocal glasses, which enabled people to see clearly both up close and far away.

1785-07
Departure from France

Benjamin Franklin left France in July 1785, marking the end of his diplomatic mission in the country.

1785-09
Arrival in Philadelphia

Benjamin Franklin arrived in Philadelphia in September 1785 after returning from his diplomatic service in France.

1785-09-23
Correspondence to Honorable Benjamin Franklin

Correspondence sent to Honorable Benjamin Franklin on September 23, 1785.

1786
Reelected

Benjamin Franklin is reelected in 1786.

1786-06-06
Letter to Benjamin Franklin

A letter addressed to Benjamin Franklin, discussing various matters.

1787
Signing of the Constitution of the United States

In 1787, the Constitution of the United States was signed, laying the foundation for the country's governance and legal framework.

1787-03-31
Letter to Benjamin Franklin

A letter addressed to Benjamin Franklin on March 31, 1787.

1787-06-22
Letter to Benjamin Franklin

A letter addressed to Benjamin Franklin on June 22, 1787.

1788
Retires from Public Life

Benjamin Franklin retires from public life in 1788.

1790-04-17
Death of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin died at the age of 84. He was a key figure in the founding of public schooling, the money system, religious institutions, and the American government. His contributions are remembered and celebrated.

1973
Index to the Benjamin Franklin Papers

The Index to the Benjamin Franklin Papers was published in Washington, D.C. in 1973, providing a comprehensive resource for locating documents related to Benjamin Franklin.

2021
Corporate Funding for Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin received corporate funding from Bank of America, David M. Rubenstein, The Pew Charitable Trusts, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, The Better Angels Society, University of Pennsylvania, and various other individuals and organizations.

2022
Franklin’s Young Scientists

An educational initiative at Benjamin Franklin House to inspire and engage young scientists in learning about science and innovation.

2024
Benjamin Franklin House Registered Charity

In 2024, the Benjamin Franklin House was officially registered as a charity with the charity number 276066.

End of the Timeline
Benjamin Franklin
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