Printer, writer, scientist, inventor, diplomat and Founding Father: Benjamin Franklin did more in one lifetime than most people could imagine. Benjamin Franklin Day, on January 17, marks his birthday and celebrates his curiosity, practical inventions and public spirit. From bifocals to public libraries, many things Franklin created or championed are still part of daily life, making him one of the most relatable figures in American history.
History of Benjamin Franklin Day
Benjamin Franklin was born in Boston on January 17, 1706, the 15th of 17 children. He left school at ten, trained as a printer with his older brother, and ran away to Philadelphia at 17. There he built a successful printing business and became famous for Poor Richard's Almanack, filled with sayings such as 'Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.'
Franklin was endlessly curious. His experiments with electricity, including the famous kite experiment in 1752, made him internationally known, and he invented the lightning rod, the Franklin stove and bifocal glasses. He refused to patent many inventions, believing they should benefit everyone. He also helped found Philadelphia's first lending library, a volunteer fire company and the institution that became the University of Pennsylvania.
Franklin helped draft the Declaration of Independence, secured French support during the Revolutionary War, and signed the U.S. Constitution. He died in 1790, aged 84. Who first declared Benjamin Franklin Day is not documented, but his birthday has long been marked by schools, libraries and historical societies.
Why Benjamin Franklin Day Matters
Franklin's life shows how curiosity and hard work can make a difference. He taught himself much of what he knew and used his knowledge to improve his community.
His ideas about public libraries, volunteering and practical science still shape American life today.
How to Celebrate Benjamin Franklin Day
- Read Poor Richard's Almanack: pick your favorite saying and share it.
- Try a Franklin experiment: learn about static electricity with a balloon and small paper pieces.
- Visit a library: Franklin helped create one of America's first lending libraries.
- Learn about his inventions: from bifocals to the lightning rod.
- Volunteer: Franklin helped organize volunteer fire companies and civic groups.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, Franklin's habit of self-improvement inspires a fun challenge: ask colleagues to share one small habit they want to build this year, or post a Franklin quote of the day. In classrooms, students can study Franklin's inventions and design their own invention to solve an everyday problem, or compare his famous sayings with modern proverbs. Science classes can run safe static electricity experiments. At home, families can look at the face on the $100 bill and talk about who Franklin was, read a children's biography together, or visit a library and sign up for a card. Franklin's 13 virtues, such as order and frugality, make a thoughtful conversation for older children.
Fun Facts About Benjamin Franklin Day
- Franklin was born in Boston on January 17, 1706.
- He invented bifocals, the lightning rod and the Franklin stove.
- Franklin chose not to patent many of his inventions.
Benjamin Franklin Day FAQs
When is Benjamin Franklin Day?
It is observed on January 17, Franklin's birthday.
What did Benjamin Franklin invent?
He invented the lightning rod, bifocal glasses and the Franklin stove, among other things.
Was Benjamin Franklin a president?
No. He was a Founding Father, diplomat and statesman, but never president.
Why is Franklin on the $100 bill?
He is honored for his role as a founder of the United States and his contributions to science and public life.