REMEMBERING NON-REVISED HISTORY: SEPTEMBER 8, 2013

Benjamin Franklin

A Founding Father of the United States
Signer of the Declaration of Independence
“The First American”

On ‘Crime & Virtue’

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

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This Day In History 39 Years Ago
American Presidential - September 8, 1974

President Ford Pardons Former President Nixon

“Watergate Scandal”

On this day in 1974, President Gerald Ford, who assumed office on the heels of President Richard M. Nixon's resignation, pardons his predecessor for his involvement in the Watergate scandal.

Congress had accused Nixon of obstruction of justice during the investigation of the Watergate scandal, which began in 1972. White House tape recordings revealed that Nixon knew about and possibly authorized the illegal break-in and wiretapping of the Democratic National Committee offices, located in the Watergate Hotel in Washington D.C. Rather than face impeachment and removal from office, Nixon chose to resign on August 8, 1974. » Full Article

Significant Events This Day In History

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