Ambassador Benjamin Franklin carries the red diplomatic portfolio.

Figure from the Museum of Ventura County collection.

Benjamin Franklin wore the bifocals he invented.

Franklin published his Poor Richard’s Almanac

Printer, scientist, inventor, activist, and diplomat.

Benjamin Franklin, son of a poor candle and soap maker, became an accomplished statesman, diplomat, writer, scientist and philosopher. He rallied French support for the nation and was key architect of both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. He also helped to guide the Treaty of Paris, which ended the war between England and the new United States.

Ben Franklin's inventions, like the lightning rod and the aphorisms he penned forPoor Richard’s Almanac have become fixtures of American culture.

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