Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) was an American printer, writer, scientist, inventor, and diplomat, often regarded as a Founding Father of the United States. He rose to prominence as editor of The Pennsylvania Gazette and author of Poor Richard's Almanack before winning scientific renown for experiments with electricity. He also played a major role in the American Revolution (1765-1789).
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Timeline
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17 Jan 1706Benjamin Franklin is born in Boston, Massachusetts.
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Oct 1723Benjamin Franklin arrives in Philadelphia, finds work as a journeyman printer.
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Dec 1724 - Jul 1726Benjamin Franklin goes to London for the first time.
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1727Benjamin Franklin forms the Junto, or the 'Leather Apron Club', a club that met to debate morals, politics, and philosophy and improve their community.
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1729Benjamin Franklin begins publishing the Pennsylvania Gazette.
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1 Sep 1730Benjamin Franklin enters a common-law marriage with Deborah Read.
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1732 - 1758"Poor Richard's Almanack" is published annually by Benjamin Franklin, famous for its many proverbs that survive to the modern day.
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1748Benjamin Franklin retires from the printing business, begins focusing on his experiments with electricity.
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10 Jul 1754Benjamin Franklin suggests the Albany Plan of Union, though it is ultimately rejected.
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1757 - 1775Benjamin Franklin resides in London as a colonial agent.
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1770Benjamin Frankling publishes a chart of the Gulf Stream.
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23 Mar 1779Benjamin Franklin is named ambassador to France.
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17 Apr 1790Benjamin Franklin dies in Philadelphia at the age of 84.
