Discussion Question Benjamin Franklin Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Discussion Question Benjamin Franklin - Essay Example Franklin made education accessible to the common man as he believed it should not be a privilege only for the elite. He founded the first non-sectarian college in America, which later became the University of Pennsylvania. He was also credited for establishing the first library, hospital, and police force in Pennsylvania. A true believer in serving one's country and mankind, he was said not to patent his inventions. Franklin was also a printer. By the age of 22, Franklin owned and operated his own printing office and used his printing skills to print paper money. Franklin helped to establish the paper currency system in America that today, his contribution to the economy is honoured with his face on the $100 bill. In research, Franklin was the first person to conduct an extensive study on electricity. It is said that in June 1752, he used a kite to prove that lightning was a stream of electrified air called plasma. This study later led him to develop the lightning rod to protect people, especially on ships. Franklin personified the striving, ambitious, rising system of individual achievement, hard work, thrift and optimism found at the heart of the American spirit. In fact, Franklin is often introduced to elementary school children as a Renaissance man, someone who seemed to master all fields of knowledge.