A Biography of Benjamin Franklin, Scientist
Benjamin Franklin was one of the preeminent scientists of his time. Driven by curiosity, he conducted cutting-edge research on electricity, heat, ocean currents, weather patterns, chemical bonds, and plants. But today, Franklin is remembered more for his political prowess and diplomatic achievements than his scientific creativity.
In Ingenious, Richard Munson recovers this vital part of Franklin’s story, reveals his modern relevance, and offers a compelling portrait of a shrewd experimenter, clever innovator, and visionary physicist whose fame opened doors to negotiate French support and funding for American independence. Munson’s riveting narrative explores how science underpins Franklin’s entire story — from tradesman to inventor to nation-founder.
“Munson’s biography is concise but comprehensive, a highly readable epic in 210 pages, no mean feat given all Franklin saw and did in his 84 years. As a legislator and leader, his civic contributions included helping to form the first Philadelphia public library, police force and firefighting company, and co-founding the University of Pennsylvania.”
The Guardian
“Fascinating and revealing … Highly readable epic … Concise but comprehensive”
“Electrifying portrait. … Munson proves there’s reason yet to revisit the much-studied statesman.”
“In this incisive and rich account of Benjamin Franklin’s life and career, Richard Munson recovers this vital part of Franklin’s story, reveals his modern relevance, and offers a compelling portrait of a shrewd experimenter, clever innovator, and visionary physicist whose fame opened doors to negotiate French support and funding for American independence.”
“[S]plendid…Munson’s absorbing narrative biography guides us expertly through Franklin’s extraordinary life. Page after page, Ingenious shows how one person with little formal education made an impact that still has relevance today. For readers of history, biography and science (or simply those in search of an outstanding book about Franklin that is not too long), Ingenious is an excellent choice.”
“Munson deftly navigates Franklin’s myriad accomplishments. An engaging, fully dimensional portrait of Franklin, his empirical mindset serving as an example for our fact-challenged era.”
“Engaging narrative. … This will appeal to history buffs, biography fans, and book clubs.”
A Biography of Benjamin Franklin, Scientist
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