Benjamin Franklin Impact On Society

Bifocals, lightning rods, the University of Pennsylvania, the Declaration of Independence, and firefighters. What do all these have in common? One man, a revolutionary man, developed each one. In a complacent society, Benjamin Franklin created ripples that have brought waves of change for future generations. He saw improved ways of life and made them a reality. Benjamin Franklin fits the revolutionary model; he defied social norms, invented new devices, helped the colonies establish a country, and aided the development of his community. The term “revolutionary” has various, diverse definitions. The Cambridge Dictionary says, “A revolutionary product, process, or idea is new and exciting and not like anything that has existed or been done

During his lifetime, Franklin defied the societal norms of 18th century New England. According to the University of Pennsylvania, Benjamin Franklin pushed the boundaries of his society. In a time when colleges focused on training and equipping young men for a life of godly ministry (“Penn’s”), Franklin wanted to “train young people for leadership in business, government, and public service” (“Penn’s”). Franklin chose to think outside the box of society’s limited view and perspective; he wanted to propel people forward into an age of innovation and growth. The University of Pennsylvania also says, “Franklin pushed boundaries that moved science and society forward and helped shape America’s very nationhood” (“Penn’s”). Benjamin Franklin blazed a path for future generations to follow. His drive and determination foreshadowed the characteristics of future American citizens. In addition, Benjamin Franklin viewed slavery as “inherently evil” (“Benjamin Franklin”, Biography.com). When most of the population supported and even praised the use of slaves, Franklin took a stand for the rights of the enslaved people. Many people could argue that Benjamin Franklin did not challenge the ways of life in the 18th century. However, Franklin clearly defied the popular beliefs of colonial America in the 1700s. While many colonists actively focused on Christianity, Franklin directed

Benjamin Franklin helped the thirteen colonies form a country separate from Britain. He assisted in writing the Declaration of Independence (Hornberger and Wood). Franklin also worked to gain “support from King Louis XVI of France and was largely responsible for his signing the important military alliance of 1778” (“Benjamin Franklin”, American Battlefield Trust). As a result of Benjamin Franklin’s use of eloquence and intelligence, the French “provided the money, troops, armament, military leadership and naval support” (Zeller). Benjamin Franklin “was selected to serve as a delegate to the Second Continental Congress” (“Benjamin Franklin,” History). This role gave him a prominent voice in governing of the colonies. Despite many pieces of evidence, people might minimize the importance of Benjamin Franklin’s role in America’s grueling fight for independence. Such people hold the belief that the colonies could have won the Revolutionary War without French intervention. However, Benjamin Franklin’s work in France helped America emerge victorious over the British. Prior to French involvement, the American militia struggled to provide for its troops throughout the year (“What Happened”). The small, untrained militia lacked enough supplies to make it through the changing seasons. With Franklin’s persuasion, French “supplies proved critical in keeping Washington’s struggling army in the field through