Nov 30, 2022 3 min read Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin: Summary

Everything you need to know about Carl Van Doren's Benjamin Franklin, in 1 paragraph.

A reader enjoying Benjamin Franklin by Carl Van Doren

Benjamin Franklin by Carl Van Doren is a biography of the iconic American Founding Father and inventor, Benjamin Franklin. It chronicles his life from his birth in Boston in 1706 to his death in Philadelphia in 1790. It explores his many accomplishments, as well as his personal life and relationships. In addition to being a prominent statesman, Franklin was an accomplished scientist, philosopher and author. The book covers his various inventions, such as the lightning rod and bifocal glasses, as well as his efforts to bring about peace during the Revolutionary War. It also examines Franklin's views on democracy and the values he held dear throughout his life.

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Benjamin Franklin: Key Points

Benjamin Franklin was a self-made man who rose to prominence in the cultural and political life of colonial America.
He was an influential author, printer, scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat and philosopher.
He played an important role in the American Revolution and helped draft the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States.
He was a leader in the Enlightenment movement and an advocate for democracy, religious tolerance, and free trade.
He founded numerous public institutions such as the first public library, fire insurance company, police force and hospital in Philadelphia.
He was a prolific writer and wrote many political essays and scientific works including ‘Poor Richard’s Almanac’ which became a bestseller in colonial America.
He was an early advocate for women's rights and helped found the American Philosophical Society to promote scientific research.
Franklin was also committed to philanthropy and public service, donating much of his wealth to charitable causes throughout his lifetime.

What to say about Benjamin Franklin

"Benjamin Franklin was a remarkable figure in American history, with his incredible intellect and forward-thinking principles."
"He was an inspiring example of the power of education and determination to achieve one's goals."
"Franklin's diverse career as a statesman, scientist, inventor and philosopher left a lasting legacy on our nation."
"The wide breadth of his knowledge and accomplishments are truly admirable."
"Benjamin Franklin was a man of great ingenuity who used his talents to better society through his writings and inventions."
"His contributions to the world of science were truly impressive, such as his investigations into electricity and the development of bifocals."
"Franklin is also noted for his role in the founding of America and the signing of the Declaration of Independence."
"The life and works of Benjamin Franklin serve as an excellent reminder of the importance of dedication, hard work and creativity."
"His influence is still felt today in many aspects of American life, from politics to everyday inventions."
"Carl Van Doren's biography on Benjamin Franklin is an insightful look at this remarkable man's life and achievements."

What to post on LinkedIn or Twitter about Benjamin Franklin

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Benjamin Franklin is one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and his legacy continues to inspire us. #benjaminfranklin #carlvandoren
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Top 5 Quotes from Benjamin Franklin

"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest."
"Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning."
"You may delay, but time will not."
"Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing."
"Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn."

Other books by Carl Van Doren

The American Novel (1921 American and British Literature Since 1890 (1927 The World of Washington Irving (1928 The Great Rehearsal: The Story of the Making and Ratifying of the Constitution of the United States (1948 The Secret History of the American Revolution (1941 Famous Americans of Recent Times (1945 Nature's Nation (1949 Anthology of World Poetry (1960 Nation and Nature: The American Revolution in New England, 1760-1790 (1966 The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, Edited by Carl Van Doren (1945