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Birth
Born the youngest son of Josiah and Abiah in Boston, Massachusetts. The site of his birthplace still remains. -
Marriage
He established a common-law marriage to Deborah Reed after acknowledgement of an illegitimate son named William. -
Publication of Poor Richard's Almanack begins
Franklin published this under the pseudonym of Richard Saunders. It was from these publications that he is often quoted. -
Creation of a University
Franklin established the Academy and College of Philadelphia which alter merged to become the University of Pennsylvania. -
Electricity Experiment
Thomas-Francois Dalibard of France performed the kite/electricity experiment as set forth in writing by Franklin. This confirmed Franklin's theory about drawing electricity from the clouds. -
Postmaster
Franklin was appointed joint-deputy Postmaster General of North America. He reformed the postal system as one of his greatest political accomplishments. -
Committee of Five
The Second Continental Congress appointed Franklin to the Committee of Five- they were charged with the task of drafting the Declaration of Independence. -
Elected Office
Franklin was elected as the President of the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania. -
Death
Franklin died at the age of 84. His funeral was attended by over 20,000 people. He is buried in Philadelphia.
