Benjamin Franklin’s accomplishments dwarf those of any American since the advent of recorded history. His accomplishments are so vast and varied that no other American comes close. He was interested in virtually everything and made more contributions to more fields than any of his countrymen before or since his time. He was a writer, scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat, printer, publisher, and political philosopher. He was even a chess expert. He founded schools, libraries, hospitals, fire departments, and on and on. His horizon was the world. As a commentator on behavior his perspicacity was unmatched. Here are just two observations that show his brilliance.
- If you would know the value of money, try to borrow some.
- Three can keep a secret if two of them are dead.
His autobiography published the year after his death (1791) is still a good read.
