Profile of the Day: Benjamin Franklin

Today we remember Benjamin Franklin, who died on April 17, 1790 at the age of 84. Not only was Franklin one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, but he was also a leading author, scientist, inventor, diplomat, and more.

Image: Benjamin Franklin / Smithsonian Institution, National Portrait Gallery CC0

Franklin was born on January 17, 1706 in Boston, Massachusetts to Josiah Franklin, a candlemaker, and his second wife, Abiah Folger. He was one of 17 children born to Josiah and the youngest son. Although he did not have a formal education, Franklin would go on to become a wealthy businessman, inventor, and diplomat. His work as an inventor helped make everyday life a little easier. Some of his most notable inventions include bifocals, the lighting rod, and the Franklin stove.

Remembered as one of the most important figures in American history, Franklin is the only Founding Father to have signed four of the major documents of the founding of the United States: the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Alliance with France, the Treaty of Paris, and the United States Constitution.

Throughout his later years, Franklin suffered from multiple health problems. He died of complications from pleurisy on April 17, 1790 at his home in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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