“A perfect character might be attended with the inconvenience of being envied and hated; and that a benevolent man should allow a few faults in himself, to keep his friends in countenance.”

American polymath, 18th century

Benjamin Franklin was an American polymath of the 18th century, active as a physicist, philosopher, statesman, and inventor. He is remembered as one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. He helped draft and sign the Declaration of Independence and later served as the first postmaster general. His work spanned science, public life, and practical invention, placing him among the most versatile figures of his era.