In addition to George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Abigail Adams, Benjamin Franklin is one of the men who rose to prominence during the American Revolution. These individuals distinguished themselves by their talent, wisdom, patriotism, and courage. At Mind Muzic, your students can learn more about these history lessons through our award-winning educational programs.
About Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) was born in colonial Boston on January 17, 1706. Josiah Franklin (1657-1745) was his father and Abiah Folger (1667-1752) was his mother. Benjamin Franklin was the eighth (out of 10) child in the family. Today, he is recognized as one of the leading figures of early American history. Benjamin Franklin was a diplomat, statesman, inventor, scientist, author, publisher, and a successful businessman. In fact, he built a successful printing business in Philadelphia and generated significant wealth from it.
Because Benjamin Franklin was active in public affairs in his adopted city, he helped launch a college, hospital, and lending library. He even garnered praise for his electrical experiments. In addition to serving in the Second Continental Congress during the American Revolution, Benjamin Franklin also helped draft the Declaration of Independence in 1776. To end the Revolutionary War (1775-83), he even negotiated the 1783 Treaty of Paris.
Popular Facts about Benjamin Franklin
- Contrary to popular belief, Benjamin Franklin was not born in Philadelphia but in Boston. He attended Boston Latin School and was baptized in the Old South Meeting House. Today, individuals can find an 8-foot statue in front of the Old City Hall which pays tribute to him.
- Benjamin Franklin played presidential roles even though he did not officially run for president. Unlike his contemporaries such as John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington, Benjamin Franklin held the office of the presidency. Instead, he was Pennsylvania’s governor and had other roles like the U.S. Postmaster General and U.S. ambassador to Sweden and France.
- Benjamin Franklin only had two years of formal education but was considered the most brilliant American of his age. He did not pursue education but chose to join the family’s candle and soap making business.
- Benjamin Franklin was musically inclined and designed musical instruments that were used by Beethoven and Mozart themselves! The glass armonica was one of Franklin’s more unusual inventions. The instrument replicates the otherworldly sound that wet fingers make when rubbed along the rim of glass.
- Benjamin Franklin was the only founding father who signed all four key documents that formed the United States. These documents included the United States Constitution, 1783’s peace treaty with Great Britain, the Treaty of Alliance with France, and most notably the Declaration of Independence.
- In Benjamin Franklin’s final act of public service, he served as a delegate to the convention that produced the United States Constitution.
Benjamin Franklin History Lessons | What Mind Muzic Offers
Our team has created a rap video about Benjamin Franklin. He was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. As a man “who wore many hats”, in this song you will learn how he also was an inventor, an author, statesman, and a politician.
Why Learn More about Benjamin Franklin through Mind Muzic?
Our rap videos and educational programs engage students and allow them to learn history lessons through rhythm and rhyme. Mind Muzic’s content can be used in a traditional class environment or and virtual teaching platforms. Additionally, our lessons align with state and national standards for 6th-12th grade curriculum.
If you have any questions about our Great People Lessons, including Benjamin Franklin lessons, do not hesitate to contact us today.