The United States $100 bill is one of the most recognizable and widely circulated denominations of currency in the world. On the obverse (front side) of the bill, a portrait of Benjamin Franklin, one of America's founding fathers, is prominently featured. Franklin's likeness has been on the $100 bill since 1914, making him one of the most enduring and iconic figures in American currency.
Who was Benjamin Franklin?
Benjamin Franklin was a true Renaissance man - an American polymath who made lasting impacts in various fields, including science, politics, literature, and diplomacy. Born on January 17, 1706, in Boston, Massachusetts, Franklin was the 15th of 17 children to a candlemaker and his wife. Despite his humble beginnings, Franklin’s insatiable curiosity, passion for learning, and strong work ethic propelled him to become one of the most influential figures in American history.
Franklin’s Contributions to Science and Invention
Franklin’s contributions to science and invention are vast and varied. He is perhaps best known for his experiments with electricity, which led to the invention of the lightning rod, bifocal glasses, and the Franklin stove. His famous kite experiment in 1752 demonstrated the connection between lightning and electricity, paving the way for significant advances in the field. Franklin’s scientific inquiry and innovative spirit earned him widespread recognition and respect, both in America and Europe.
| Year | Contribution |
|---|---|
| 1752 | Conducted the famous kite experiment, demonstrating the connection between lightning and electricity |
| 1741 | Invented the Franklin stove, a cast-iron stove that provided more heat with less fuel |
| 1784 | Invented bifocal glasses, allowing people to see both near and far objects clearly without having to switch between two pairs of glasses |
Key Points
- Benjamin Franklin's portrait has been on the $100 bill since 1914, making him one of the most enduring figures in American currency
- Franklin was a true Renaissance man, with contributions to science, politics, literature, and diplomacy
- He is famous for his experiments with electricity, including the invention of the lightning rod and bifocal glasses
- Franklin's scientific inquiry and innovative spirit earned him widespread recognition and respect, both in America and Europe
- His legacy extends far beyond his scientific contributions, with a lasting impact on American government, values, and culture
Franklin’s Role in American History
Franklin played a leading role in shaping America’s independence and government. He was a delegate to the Continental Congress, where he helped draft the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. Franklin’s diplomatic skills and reputation helped secure French support for the American Revolution, which was instrumental in the war’s outcome. He also served as the first United States Postmaster General, helping to establish a reliable and efficient postal system.
Franklin’s Literary and Philosophical Contributions
Franklin was a skilled writer and printer, with a passion for literature and philosophy. He founded the University of Pennsylvania and the Library Company of Philadelphia, which was the first public library in America. Franklin’s writings, including his famous autobiography and essays in the Pennsylvania Gazette, showcased his wit, humor, and insight into human nature. His philosophical contributions, particularly in the areas of ethics and morality, continue to influence American thought and culture.
Franklin's legacy is a testament to the power of human ingenuity, curiosity, and perseverance. His contributions to science, politics, literature, and diplomacy have left a lasting impact on American history and culture. As a symbol of American values and achievements, Benjamin Franklin's portrait on the $100 bill remains an enduring and iconic representation of the country's rich heritage.
What were some of Benjamin Franklin’s most notable contributions to science?
+Some of Benjamin Franklin’s most notable contributions to science include his experiments with electricity, which led to the invention of the lightning rod, bifocal glasses, and the Franklin stove. His famous kite experiment in 1752 demonstrated the connection between lightning and electricity, paving the way for significant advances in the field.
What role did Franklin play in American history?
+Franklin played a leading role in shaping America’s independence and government. He was a delegate to the Continental Congress, where he helped draft the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. Franklin’s diplomatic skills and reputation helped secure French support for the American Revolution, which was instrumental in the war’s outcome.
