Benjamin Franklin
A Founding Father of the United States
Signer of the Declaration of Independence
“The First American”
Signer of the Declaration of Independence
“The First American”
On ‘God’
Biography
Benjamin Franklin (January 17, 1706 – April 17, 1790) was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. A noted polymath, Franklin was a leading author, printer, political theorist, politician, postmaster, scientist, musician, inventor, satirist, civic activist, statesman, and diplomat. As a scientist, he was a major figure in the American Enlightenment and the history of physics for his discoveries and theories regarding electricity. Franklin earned the title of "The First American" for his early and indefatigable campaigning for colonial unity; as an author and spokesman in London for several colonies, then as the first United States Ambassador to France, he exemplified the emerging American nation. Franklin was foundational in defining the American ethos as a marriage of the practical values of thrift, hard work, education, community spirit, self-governing institutions, and opposition to authoritarianism both political and religious, with the scientific and tolerant values of the Enlightenment. » Full Bio» See All 'Quotable Quotes'
This Day In History 112 Years Ago
American Presidential - September 14, 1901
American Presidential - September 14, 1901
President William McKinley
Dies From Gunshot Wounds
Dies From Gunshot Wounds
On this day in 1901, President William McKinley succumbs to gunshot wounds inflicted by an assassin on September 6. According to witnesses, McKinley's last words were those of the hymn "Nearer My God to Thee."
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On September 16, after receiving a funeral befitting a president in Washington, D.C., McKinley's coffin was transported by train to his hometown of Canton, Ohio, for burial. » Full Article
Significant Events This Day In History
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