Benjamin Franklin: Biography and 12 Major Accomplishments
President of the Council of Pennsylvania
Briefly back in the United States in 1785, Benjamin’s fame was at all-time high. He was undoubtedly the second most influential person in America, after George Washington. He also took part in abolitionists’ efforts to bring an end to slavery and the international trade of slaves. To show his strong commitment to this cause, Benjamin freed the slaves that he owned.
After an illustrious career of diplomacy abroad, Franklin came back to America. On October 18, 1785, the State of Pennsylvania elected Franklin to serve as the sixth president of the state (state governor). From 1785 to 1788, the state placed their fate in his hands, and he was elected for an additional two consecutive terms (1786 and 1787).
In total, Benjamin spent about 18 years living abroad. For most of his trips in Europe, he was often accompanied by his son, William Franklin.
Benjamin Franklin’s Death
On April 17, 1790, Benjamin Franklin died at his Philadelphia home. He was 84 years old. His death brought the country into mourning. At his funeral, about 20,000 people paid their last respect to this American polymath and Founding Father. Benjamin Franklin’s body was buried at Philadelphia’s Christ Church cemetery.
Benjamin Franklin: Fast Facts
Birthday: January 17, 1706
Place of birth: Boston, Massachusetts Bay, British America
Died: April 17, 1790
Place of death: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Parents: Josiah Franklin and Abiah Folger
Siblings: 9 siblings and 7 half-siblings
Wife: Deborah Read
Children: William, Francis Folger, Sarah
Major inventions: The lightning rod and kite experiment
Nickname: The First American
Benjamin Franklin in Poor Richard’s Almanack, 1756
