Benjamin Franklin, born on January 17, 1706, in Boston, Massachusetts, was a polymath whose contributions spanned various fields including politics, science, and literature. He passed away on April 17, 1790, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Franklin is best remembered as one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, but his literary career and intellectual achievements have also left a profound mark on American culture.

Franklin was the fifteenth of seventeen children in a modest family. His father, Josiah Franklin, was a candle maker, and his mother, Abiah Folger, was a homemaker. Growing up in a Puritan household, Franklin received only two years of formal education before he was apprenticed to his brother James, a printer. This experience ignited his passion for writing, leading him to publish his first work at the young age of 16.

In his literary career, Franklin is renowned for his wit, wisdom, and keen observations of society. Notable works include "Poor Richard's Almanack," a yearly publication filled with proverbs and practical advice, and "The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin," which reflects on his life and philosophy. His writing not only entertained but also educated the public, establishing him as a key figure in the American Enlightenment.

Franklin's personal life was as dynamic as his career. He married Deborah Read in 1730, and together they had three children. His involvement in civic affairs included founding institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania and the American Philosophical Society. His legacy is a blend of literary genius, scientific innovation, and political foresight, making him a quintessential figure in American history.