The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin

• Publisher: Mint Editions
• Year: 2021
• Print ISBN: 9781513279664
• eBook ISBN: 9781513284682
• Topic: History
• Subtopic: Historical Biographies
• Index: History

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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Table of contents

• Cover
• Title Page
• Copyright
• Contents
• I. Ancestry and Early Youth in Boston
• II. Beginning Life as a Printer
• III. Arrival in Philadelphia
• IV. First Visit to Boston
• V. Early Friends in Philadelphia
• VI. First Visit to London
• VII. Beginning Business in Philadelphia
• VIII. Business Success and First Public Service
• IX. Plan for Attaining Moral Perfection
• X. Poor Richard’s Almanac and Other Activities
• XI. Interest in Public Affairs
• XII. Defense of the Province
• XIII. Public Services and Duties
• XIV. Albany Plan of Union
• XV. Quarrels with the Proprietary Governors
• XVI. Braddock’s Expedition
• XVII. Franklin’s Defense of the Frontier
• XVIII. Scientific Experiments
• XIX. Agent of Pennsylvania in London
• Appendix
• Electrical Kite
• The Way to Wealth
• The Whistle
• A Letter to Samuel Mather
• Bibliography
• A Note About the Author
• A Note from the Publisher