Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

is a record of the life of one of the most impressive individuals in the American history. Franklin's autobiography, although unfinished, represents one of the most famous and influential examples of an autobiography ever written. His book is the record of an unusual life told in his own unexcelled conversational style. The Autobiography is Franklin's longest work, and yet it is only a fragment of it. The account of Franklin's life is divided in a manner that reflects the different periods in which he wrote them.

The first part, written as a letter to his son, William Franklin, was not intended for publication; the composition is more informal and the narrative more personal than in the second part, from 1730 onward, which was written with a view to publication.

Contents

Ancestry and Early Life in Boston

Beginning Life as a Printer

Arrival in Philadelphia

First Visit to Boston

Early Friends in Philadelphia

First Visit to London

Beginning Business in Philadelphia

Business Success and First Public Service

Plan for Attaining Moral Perfection

Poor Richard's Almanac and Other Activities

Interest in Public Affairs

Defense of the Province

Public Services and Duties

Albany Plan of Union