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Ben Frank

Essay by   •  September 23, 2010  •  889 Words (4 Pages)  •  1,726 Views

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Benjamin Franklin, through hard work and perseverance, transformed himself into a philosopher, diplomat, inventor, writer, and scientist. (SOURCE) Franklin's contributions and ideas significantly encouraged major progress in the development our country and improvements that continue to affect society. He showed that with a strong desire and honest and hard work anything is possible. Unlike most politicians, he was a common person. He is also a hero in that he symbolizes hope and possibilities for many Americans. However, Franklin was not a perfect human being, and for that reason, some believe that his face should not grace the $100 bill. His legacy is undeniably a major part in our history and as one of the key "founding fathers" to our society; the fact reminds Benjamin Franklin is distinct figure in our history. I will present my argument in favor of keeping Franklin on the bill.

Franklin moved from Boston to Philadelphia in search of a better place to stay and for his exploration. He is known for going "from rags to riches" from achieving many jobs and contributing to the colonies as a way to give back to the community. He became the first person to open a public library in Philadelphia in hopes of helping more people to educate themselves. Later, he established a fire company, developed a hospital and many useful things that are still with us today. Also, established the University of Pennsylvania and reformed the police department by taxing the community and having steady law enforcement.

Franklin also assisted in the development of streetlights. Before, streetlights were not as useful due to its flawed structure. Franklin changed the sculpture of the streetlights from a rounded glass to a square-like glass, which made the lights durable and eventually assisted in efficient lighting system for the city. This became vital part in lowering the crime rate and improving the lives of many people. In addition, Benjamin Franklin was a great writer and excellent thinker who improved the printing press. (Quote)

Franklin also contributed to convincing France to join the revolution with the colonies against Britain. The colonies were in a losing war. Eventually France intervened and helped the colonies by supplying them with firearms and men to assist the defeat of the English. This defeat led to the independence of the United States.

According to Barry Gewen, "the library, Fire Company, insurance company, hospital and university he founded in Philadelphia were some of the inventions that won him fame on both sides of the Atlantic." All of these things still exist because of him and without him; it can be considered that these ideas would not have been established, if Franklin wasn't around. Even though he has some dark spots in his past, he still remains a man who changed the modern world forever.

There are some who do not consider Franklin a great person, and he definitely was far from perfect. Not only did he treat women badly, but he also went after females who were considerably younger than he was. For example, according to Gewen, "He treated his wife miserably and he admonished young brides

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