This Wikipedia entry details the life of Benjamin Franklin, a pivotal American Founding Father and versatile intellectual who lived during the eighteenth century. The text highlights his multifaceted career as a printer, scientist, and statesman, noting his essential roles in drafting the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Readers can explore his scientific breakthroughs in electricity and his numerous practical inventions, such as the lightning rod and bifocals. Additionally, the source examines his diplomatic service in France and his evolution into a prominent abolitionist later in life. This comprehensive overview also catalogues his civic contributions, including the establishment of libraries, fire departments, and the University of Pennsylvania. Final sections address his personal beliefs, his posthumous legacy on American currency, and his enduring status as a symbol of the Enlightenment.