| Isaacson's biography of Ben Franklin is long and detailed but it is well worth the time invested. Franklin is possibly the most original and unique American character ever in our near 230 year history. The list of his roles to the country and personal achievements are enough to inspire patriot or royalist alike.
He attained wealth as a printer. He was appointed colonial postmaster. He is credited with unlocking many of the mysteries of electricity and coining the terminology positive and negative, battery, neutral, conductor and others. He invented the lightning rod. He formed the colonies first organized militia. He helped to found the University of Pennsylvania. He invented the Franklin stove. He was a representative to the first and second Continental Congress and a signatory of the Declaration of Independence (which he helped to edit). His role as minister to Britain and France made him a reknown statesmen in Europe. In addition, he was vain and opinionated. He was so dispassionate about his common law wife of 44 years, he chose not to return to see her on her deathbed after 10 years abroad in Europe. He was estranged from his illegitimate son when each picked opposing sides in the War of Independence from England. He was a shameless flirt with young women and showed more concern and care for acquaintances and friends than his immediate family. For all his traits good or bad, he was an ambitious, hard working, self-made renaissance man, who was loyal to King and England until the British proved tyrannical. His unflagging patriotism, work ethic that kept him actively involved in world affairs until well into his 80's, inventive mind, sharp wit and brilliant mind make him possibly the most important American. His own penned life story is the world's most printed autobiography. | ||
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Plot & Themes job/profession: Job/profession/poverty story Yes Politician story? - Politician trying to reform Period of greatest activity? - 1600-1899 - Subject of Biography Gender - Male Profession/status: Ethnicity - White Nationality - American Unusual characteristics: Setting How much descriptions of surroundings? - 6 () United States Yes The US: - Northeast City? Yes City: - Century: - 18th century Writing Style Book makes you feel? - in awe Pictures/Illustrations? - A ton 16-20 B&W How much dialogue in bio? - little dialog How much of bio focuses on most famous period of life? - 51%-75% of book |
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