Young Benjamin Franklin: The Birth of Ingenuity

Bunker (An Empire on the Edge) indicates that little is known about Benjamin Franklin's (1706–90) early years—the meager information in his autobiography is marginally reliable. Here, the author focuses on the family members, philosophers, preachers, writers, business and scholarly colleagues, and Franklin's own accomplishments and failures that influenced his philosophy, self-expression, and work ethic. Franklin's flight from Boston to Philadelphia was another crucial factor in his success as a shrewd businessman, committed civic leader, and professional scientist. Pennsylvania offered him freedom of thought and expression, business opportunities, and a diverse pool of talented, like-minded individuals with whom to network. By his late 30's, Franklin had achieved his coveted status as an ingenious gentleman, finally having time and resources for full-time scientific inquiry. Bunker argues that his enigmatic air was perhaps owing to his constant realization that without persistent self-improvement and self-control failure was imminent.