Benjamin Franklin
1706–1790 · American (Boston/Philadelphia/Paris) · American Enlightenment / Revolution
Known for: Founding Father, inventor, diplomat, printer, and the most versatile genius of the American Enlightenment
Franklin was a self-made polymath—printer, scientist (lightning rod, bifocals, Franklin stove), diplomat (secured the French alliance that won the Revolution), writer (Poor Richard's Almanack), and civic leader (founded libraries, fire departments, and the University of Pennsylvania).
He was the only Founding Father who signed all four key documents: the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Alliance with France, the Treaty of Paris, and the Constitution. He was America's most famous citizen internationally—more recognized in Europe than Washington.
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