logo
pagesback-cover
65
Reddit meter
all mentions

The First American

759 pages, 2000

biographies & memoirs

biographies & memoirs

997 books
economics & politics

economics & politics

987 books
history

history

999 books
Takeaways
Description

In the first comprehensive biography of Benjamin Franklin in over sixty years, acclaimed historian H. W. Brands brings vividly to life one of the most delightful, bawdy, brilliant, original, and influential figures in American history.

A groundbreaking scientist, leading businessman, philosopher, bestselling author, inventor, diplomat, politician, and wit, Benjamin Franklin was perhaps the most beloved and celebrated American of his age or age.

Now, in a beautifully written and meticulously researched account of Franklin's life and times, his clever repartee, generous spirit, and earthy wisdom are brought compellingly to the page. His circle of friends and acquaintances extended around the globe, from Cotton Mather to Voltaire, Edmund Burke to King George III, and Sir Isaac Newton to Immanuel Kant.

Franklin was gifted with a restless curiosity, and his scientific experiments with electric currents and the weather made him the leading pioneer in the new field of electricity on both sides of the Atlantic; among his many inventions were the lightning rod, the Franklin stove, and the harmonica, a musical instrument that became the rage of Europe.

Recommendations

1
Ev Williams

Ev Williams

entrepreneurtechnologyventure capitalist

The First American found in libraries

1
498 books

Best Biographies and Memoirs

Read and learn about important people’s lives and their timeless words of wisdom with the Best Biographies & Memoirs.