Benjamin Franklin (January 17, 1706 – April 17, 1790) was one of the important founding fathers of the United States. He was the multi-professional legend, being a leading author, printer, political theorist, politician, postmaster, scientist, inventor, humorist, civic activist, statesman, and diplomat.
Being a scientist he is known for his major contributions in American Enlightenment. Lightning rods, bifocals, and Franklin stove are some of his major inventions among others.
He was titled with “The First American” for his early and indefatigable campaigning for colonial unity. Franklin also gained popularity as a successful author. Franklin suffered from obesity throughout his middle-aged and later years, which resulted in multiple health problems, particularly gout, which worsened as he aged. Benjamin Franklin died from a pleuritic attack at his home in Philadelphia on April 17, 1790.
