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The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin (1791) is an unfinished memoir by Benjamin Franklin. Addressing the work to his son William, Franklin intended to provide a private account of his life and accomplishments. Published after his death, however, The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin has since been recognized as one of the most influential works of autobiography in history, as well as a foundational text for the American ideal of the self-made man.
Born in Boston, Franklin joins his brother's printing business at a young age, learning the ropes in an industry which will later bring him both wealth and fame. Secretly, however, he publishes a series of essays under the pseudonym "Silence Dogood," satirical pieces written from the perspective of a middle-aged widow. When his authorship is revealed, a dispute ensues between Franklin and his brother that leads the young Benjamin to look for work elsewhere. Unable to find work in New York City, Franklin continues south toward Philadelphia, where he establishes himself as the printer and editor of the Pennsylvania Gazette. After describing his system of thirteen virtues aimed at moral perfection, Franklin returns to his work as a publisher of Poor Richard's Almanack, a successful yearly pamphlet containing meteorological information, practical tips, and puzzles. Franklin also focuses on his diplomatic work, scientific research and inventions, and his appointment as an honorary member of the prestigious Royal Society.
This edition of The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin is a classic of American literature reimagined for modern readers.
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About the author
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790)
Popularly known as the "First American", Benjamin Franklin remains one of the most celebrated political figures in American history. Born on 17 January 1706, in Boston, Massachusetts, Franklin was a polymath who was a statesman, diplomat, politician, scientist, an activist, inventor, and author. A leading intellectual of his time, Franklin is regarded as one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and the first United States Postmaster General.
Benjamin Franklin was born to Josiah Franklin, a soap and candle maker, and his second wife, Abiah Folger. The 15th child and the youngest son in the family, Franklin dropped out of formal schooling at the age of 10 to help his father with soap and candle making to help him make money. In 1723, he fled to New York and finally settled in Philadelphia, where he started working with a printer. Over the years, his scientific pursuits led him to craft a number of inventions, including Franklin stove, bifocals, rocking chair, American penny, flexible catheter, and so on. In his public life, he helped in drafting the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. He also negotiated the 1783 Treaty of Paris, which was instrumental in ending the Revolutionary War.
Franklin was honoured centuries after he passed away on the 50 cent piece and $100 bill, as well as warships, and even in the names of towns and institutions - a testament to his unparalleled political and scientific legacy.
