
This lively biography opens with Benjamin Franklin’s modest beginnings in a small English village, where his father, a skilled dyer, wrestles with the decision to leave an oppressive homeland for the promise of a new world. Through vivid dialogue and family anecdotes, the narrative captures the restless curiosity and practical ingenuity that marked young Ben’s early years, from his first experiments with a candle‑shop to the modest printing press he set up in a schoolroom. The author draws heavily on Franklin’s own autobiography, letting the apprentice’s voice guide readers through the challenges of poverty, relocation, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.
As the story moves forward, it shows how Franklin’s habit of turning everyday obstacles into experiments forged a character defined by perseverance and wit. His early ventures—small businesses, self‑education, and community involvement—lay the groundwork for the larger ambitions that would later shape a nation. Listeners will find an inspiring portrait of a man whose relentless drive turned humble origins into a lasting legacy.
Language
en
Duration
~11 hours (664K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2006-01-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
1820–1898
A 19th-century minister turned popular writer, he brought American history and moral storytelling together for young readers. His lively books on figures like Abraham Lincoln and George Washington helped shape how generations first met the nation's heroes.
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