English-Green/History-Yellow Joanne Fortier/Mrs. Donna McDougal11 November 2000Revolutionary War LeadersThere were many great men in the past who have contributed greatly to the growthprosperity and independence to this country. These historical figures include such men asBenjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson. These men served their country asrevolutionary war leaders and helped American to become the free and just country it istoday. Benjamin Franklin, born January 17, 1706, was the 10th son, and 15th child, of 17children in the Josiah Franklin family. Josiah was a soap and candlemaker, who lived inBoston, Massachusetts with his second wife, Abiah Folger. Although Franklin learned toread at an early age, he only attended grammar school for two years. By the time he was10 years old, Franklin was working for his father. However, he didn’t enjoy thecandlemaking profession, and two years later, Franklin was apprenticed to his brotherJames, a printer. For five years, Franklin sought to master the printers' trade. During this time, healso strove to improve his education. Franklin read numerous classic novels and perfectedhis writing style. One night, Franklin slipped a letter, signed "Silence Dogood," under thedoor of his brother's newspaper, the New England Courant. That letter and the next 13written by Franklin were published anonymously. The essays were widely read andacclaimed for their satire. In 1723, at age 17, Franklin left for Philadelphia. He got employed at a printingjob in London, learning many important skills. He came back to Pennsylvania and had by1730 become owner of a printing business. This is where Franklin published his firstofficial literary work, The Pennsylvania Gazette. In 1731, Franklin founded what is considered the first public library. During thenext several years, Franklin was responsible for establishing the first fire department, apolice force, and the Academy of Philadelphia, which became the Universi...
