Benjamin Franklin was one of the most influential Founding Fathers of the United States. A renowned polymath, Franklin was a leading author, printer, political theorist, politician, freemason, postmaster, scientist, inventor, humorist, civic activist, statesman, and diplomat. As a scientist, he was a major figure in the American Enlightenment and the history of physics for his discoveries and theories regarding electricity. He invented the lightning rod, bifocals, and the Franklin stove, among other things. He founded many civic organizations, including the Library Company, Philadelphia's first fire department and the University of Pennsylvania. Franklin earned the title of "The First American" for his early and indefatigable campaigning for colonial unity; as an author and spokesman in London for several colonies, then as a diplomat in France, he argued and won important military and financial support during the Revolutionary War. Why should someone buy Benjamin Franklin? Because he represents everything that is good about America: hard work, determination, ingenuity, and a desire to make the world a better place. He was a man of his word who always strived to live up to the highest standards of integrity. He is someone to be admired and emulate.