BENJAMIN FRANKLIN
(1706-1790)
Few people have done as much for the world as Benjamin Franklin. Although he was always proud to call himself a printer, Franklin was also a diplomat, a scientist, an inventor, a philosopher, an educator, an author, and a public servant.
In Europe, Benjamin Franklin was the most famous American of his time. It was he who persuaded the English to repeal the hated Stamp Act. It was also he who convinced the French to aid in the American Revolution. Franklin helped draft both the Declaration of Independence and the American Constitution.
BEN FRANKLIN
(Words & music by Jonathan Sprout)
He was born in Boston but he left that scene.
Ran away to Philadelphia at seventeen.
He made candles, delivered papers, but then
None of this was challenging enough for Ben.
He taught swimming. He was thrifty. Loved to read.
Became the Postmaster General, indeed.
He was a jack-of-all-trades and a master of most.
The center of attention from coast-to-coast.
Ben Franklin
He wanted freedom for all including black and white.
Signed The Constitution 'cause it was right.
He invented a stove. He was a diplomat.
He published Poor Richard's Almanac and this 'n' that.
A printer and a writer and a scientist,
A poet, inventor, and feminist.
He built the first library, and the first street light,
And we all know 'bout the time when he flew that kite.
Ben Franklin
He was quick with his words. Could think on his feet.
He said, "Eat to live, don't live to eat."
"Early to bed and early to rise,
Makes a body healthy, wealthy, and wise."
He learned a lot of languages and spoke them well.
The Europeans loved him. They thought he was swell.
He had a violin, guitar, and a harp he played.
Beethoven wrote some music for an instrument he made.
He was buddy buddy with French King Louis
And he thought wearing wigs was a little screwy.
Spent some time in England, as a matter of fact,
Helping to repeal the Stamp Act.
Ben Franklin
He created the electric word "battery."
Invented bifocals so we could see.
He was there when they built the first fire truck,
And we all know 'bout that time when that lightning struck.
© 1995 Kanukatunes (ASCAP)
“Where liberty dwells, there is my country.” – Benjamin Franklin
“Never has there been a good war or a bad peace.” -- Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin was brilliant and appreciative of high values. In 1790, he submitted a petition to Congress speaking out against slavery. This was 30 years before the birth of Harriet Tubman!
I visited Franklin Court, Independence National Historic Park in Philadelphia, PA where Franklin’s house once stood. I especially recommend a visit to underground museum. Located beneath Franklin Court, the Underground Museum features a variety of items pertaining to Benjamin Franklin. Among these are some of his inventions, as well as paintings and other objects associated with him. In the main room, there is a phone bank with recordings based on the words of such people as D.H. Lawrence and Mozart. A short minute film is also shown here.
Links:
Independence National Historical Park, Philadelphia, PA
