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Franklin, Benjamin (1706-1790), American printer, author, diplomat, philosopher, and scientist, whose many contributions to the cause of the American Revolution (1775-1783), and the newly formed federal government that followed, rank him among the country's greatest statesmen. Franklin was born on January 17, 1706, in Boston. His father, Josiah Franklin, a tallow chandler by trade, had 17 children; Benjamin was the 15th child and the 10th son. Benjamin was taken into his father's business. Finding the work uncongenial, however, …

…have obtained. Franklin encouraged and materially assisted American privateers operating against the British navy . On February 6, 1778, Franklin negotiated the treaty of commerce and defensive alliance with France that represented, in effect, the turning point of the American Revolution. Seven months later, he was appointed by Congress as the first minister plenipotentiary from the U.S. to France? Franklin's most notable service ! to his country was the result of his great skill in diplomacy. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Bibliography**