Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin (January 17 (Gregorian calendar), 1706, Boston, Mass.—April 17, 1790, Philadelphia, Pa.) was an American printer and publisher, author, inventor and scientist, diplomat,  whose actions were critical to the success of the American Revolution. One of the foremost of the Founding Fathers, Franklin helped draft the Declaration of Independence and was one of its signers. He was responsible for securing military and monetary support for the Revolution and represented the United States in France during the American Revolution. Franklin wrote Poor Richard's Almanack and invented the Franklin Stove, bifocals, the glass armonica, and swimming fins. He made important contributions to the understanding of electricity, and is remembered for the wit, wisdom, and elegance of his writing.