Benjamin Franklin - Our Inspiration

 

Benjamin Franklin was born on January 17th in 1706 in Boston, Massachusetts.

 

Considered by many to be a polymath, Franklin was a leading author and printer, satirist, political theorist, politician, scientist, inventor, civic activist, statesman, and diplomat.

 

He was a talented inventor, and created a number of notable inventions including the lightening rod, bifocals, and the first odometer. He founded the nation's first public library, and the first fire department. He even created the armonica; an instrument made of glass that presented amazing harmonies.

 

But most importantly, he was an ardent patriot, who believed in America's ability to make its mark on the world through innovation, invention, and education.

Why Franklin?

"He was what I believe every American should endeavor to be. What drove him was an interest in doing things first, being original, and thinking outside of the box. His beliefs helped power a nation of thinkers, and while he was not the only inventor our nation had, he was certainly the most prolific and diversified." - Endre Jarraux Walls, CEO & Chairman.

 

The Franklin Foundation believes in the same principals of scientific, mathematical, and technological excellence as our namesake.

 

In 1727, Benjamin Franklin created the Junto, a group of like-minded artisans and tradesmen who hoped to improve themselves while improving their community. This early organization was founded on the principle that knowledge is power, and its members were prolific readers. Because books were hard to come by in those days, they began pooling books in a lending system. This later became the Library Company of Philadelphia - America's first lending library. The library gave rise to countless others who expanded their base of knowledge through shared information, and this was the birth of innovation and invention in our young country.

 

The Franklin Foundation endeavors to provide that same spark to our nation's young people, corporations, and communities, to provide resources that expand knowledge and encourage innovation.

 

To learn more about the life of Benjamin Franklin, visit our friends at the Franklin Tercentenary via the link below.

 

     » The Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary [External Site]