Benjamin Franklin: An American Life

Isaacson writes that Franklin became “America’s best scientist, inventor, diplomat, writer, and business strategist” during his life of 84 years (2). Of all the Founding Fathers, Franklin is the most accessible, made of “flesh rather than marble” (2). He was gregarious and aware of the importance of image. He created one for himself, albeit one that was grounded in truth. He was the virtuous tradesman, practicing frugality, hard work, and honesty. More comfortable with artisans than the aristocracy, Franklin helped to create an American identity grounded in the virtues of the middle class (3). Always pragmatic, Franklin eschewed dogma but embraced the Protestant work ethic and values. He married private and civic virtue by emphasizing good works over doctrinal devotion and encouraging a commitment to a virtuous life and community service.

As the youngest son of youngest sons for five generations, Franklin was a “product of lineage rather than land” (6). Youngest sons typically had to move to other locations to make their living. Tracing Franklin’s heritage back to 16th century England, Isaacson notes that the original spelling of "Frankeleyn” referred to free men with property but no title. Isaacson theorizes that Franklin inherited his pragmatic independence, ingenuity, and love of learning from his great-great-grandfather Thomas.