and France before he performed his celebrated experiment with the kite in 1752. He invented the lightning rod and offered what is called the one-fluid theory in explanation of the two kinds of electricity, positive and negative. In recognition of his impressive scientific accomplishments, Franklin received honorary degrees form the University of St. Andrews and the University of Oxford. He also became a member of the Royal Society of London for Improving Natural Knowledge and, in 1753, was awarded its Copley Medal for distinguished contributions to experimental science. Franklin also exerted a great influence on education in Pennsylvania. In 1749 he wrote Proposals Relating to the Education of Youth in Pennsylvania; its publication led to the establishment in 1751 of the Philadelphia Academy, later to become the University of Pennsylvania. The curriculum he suggested was a considerable departure from the program of classical studies then in style. English and modern foreign languages were to be emphasized as well and mathematics and science. In 1748 Franklin sold his printing business and, in 1751, he was elected to the Pennsylvania Assembly, in which he served until 1764. He was appointed deputy postmaster general for the colonies in 1753, and in 1754 he was the delegate from Pennsylvania to the intercolonial congress that met at Albany to consider methods of dealing with the threatening French and Indian War (1754-1763). His Albany Plan, which was in many ways a foreshadowing of the 1787 U.S. Constitution, provided for local independence within a framework of colonial union, but it was too far advanced of public thinking for it to obtain ratification. It was his belief that the adoption of his plan would have averted the American Revolution.When the French and Indian War broke out, Franklin bought horses, wagons, and supplies for the British commander General Edward Braddock by pledging his own credit to the Pennsylvania f...
