Benjamin Franklin (January 17, 1706 – January 6, 1790) is one of the Founding Fathers of the United States of America and an architect of the American Revolution. He was a statesman, scientist, inventor, printer, writer, and overall polymath – a true “Renaissance Man.” Franklin was a key figure of the American Revolution as a contributing drafter of the Declaration of Independence, a diplomat vital to securing French support for the American cause, a key negotiator of the Treaty of Paris ending the war with England, and assisting in the formation of the U.S. Constitution.
A prolific writer (often pseudonymous), his most famous written work is “Poor Richard’s Almanack” – a collection of practical and witty advice he produced annually from 1732 to 1758. He earned acclaim for his scientific work related to electricity and meteorology with his famous kite experiment. As an inventor, Franklin contributed devices such as bifocals, lightning rods, and the Franklin Stove. Franklin’s famous aphorisms and wisdom are now well known and frequently quoted to this day. His contributions to America and the world are monumental and he continues to serve as an inspiration to all.
Benjamin Franklin Quotes
“Well done is better than well said.”
“Hide not your Talents, they for Use were made. What’s a Sun-Dial in the shade!”
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”
“Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning.”
“The Constitution only gives people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself.”
“He that can have patience can have what he will.”
“It is the working man who is the happy man. It is the idle man who is the miserable man.”
Benjamin Franklin Books
“Benjamin Franklin: An American Life” – by Walter Isaacson
“The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin” – by H.W. Brands
“Poor Richard’s Almanack” – by Benjamin Franklin
“Benjamin Franklin’s Book of Virtues (Books of American Wisdom)” – by Benjamin Franklin
“The Way to Wealth: Ben Franklin on Money and Success” – by Benjamin Franklin
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