The Mentor: Benjamin Franklin, Vol. 6, Num. 7, Serial No. 155, May 15, 1918

Born to modest means, he rose from apprentice printer to a prolific public figure whose activities ranged from journalism and civic reform to science and diplomacy. He edited a newspaper, founded a debating club and an academy, organized firefighting and policing, improved urban paving and lighting, and promoted hospitals and militia defense. He conducted scientific experiments and published on varied subjects while serving in colonial assemblies and as a colonial agent abroad; he helped draft independence measures, negotiated foreign support and peace settlements, participated in framing national government, and supported measures against slavery. The account emphasizes restless industriousness and practical public improvement across many fields.