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"Benjamin Franklin, at a young age, possessed a curiosity and determination that was truly insatiable; his pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement would go on to shape not only his own life, but the very fabric of a nation."
– Thomas Jefferson
Benjamin Franklin is most known as the inventor and statesman later in life. However there are many little known facts about his life in his youth.
Benjamin discovered a burning passion for the written word while apprenticing with his brother at his printing shop.
He came up with the persona of "Mrs. Silence Dogood."
Under the pseudonym, he published his thoughts in the pages of James Franklin's paper, The New-England Courant.
At 16, Franklin took on the character of a middle-aged widow. He penned a series of 14 letters under the name.
His musings on life in colonial America were met with many fans. People couldn’t wait foreach installment from the fictional Mrs. Dogood.
Sadly, Franklin's ruse was eventually uncovered by his brother James. James responded with anger and resentment.
Benjamin fled Boston and set sail for the city of Philadelphia to escape his brother's wrath.
Inspired by the teachings of Thomas Tryon in "Wisdom's Dictates," Franklin adopted a meatless diet. Thinking it was a more healthy way to live and morally superior.
Franklin's love for plant-based diets played a role in shaping the thoughts and habits of others. Examples include Sylvester Graham and William Alcott. They laid the groundwork for the modern vegetarian movement.
At 17 years old, Franklin escaped to Philadelphia, where he found employment in various printing shops.
It was here where he attracted the attention of Sir William Keith, the Governor of Pennsylvania at the time.
The ambitious Keith saw potential in young Franklin. He offered to support him in starting his own newspaper.
Franklin sailed to London on the advice of the Governor, only to find that the Governor lied about helping him out.
Needing to make his own way in the unfamiliar city, Franklin found work as a typesetter.
Franklin eventually met Thomas Denham. Denham offered him employment as a clerk, shopkeeper, and bookkeeper.
This helped Franklin save up money to return back to Philadelphia.
Once he saved enough money, Franklin was able to return to Philadelphia.
Upon setting up shop, Franklin decided to marry Deborah Read..
After getting married, Franklin was able to focus on his future business ventures.
Franklin, now 21 years old, wanted to build a community of friends where he could debate and share ideas.
Inspired by the English coffeehouses where great minds gathered to discuss important matters.
He formed the Junto club in 1727.
The Junto aimed to bring together artisans and tradesmen of Philadelphia. Wanting to foster an environment of self-improvement.
It was there that Franklin proposed the creation of a communal library by pooling the group's books together. This idea would lead to the Library Company of Philadelphia.
Many other organizations sprouted throughout the city. They all shared the common goal of promoting learning and self-improvement.
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