Franklin was a natural scientist, one who was fascinated with the natural world and who was also dedicated to documenting and understanding its workings. Morgan notes that Franklin was "continually designing experiments" and "had the same curiosity about the world that drives today's scientists," (8; 9). Franklin was, therefore, ahead of his time, and as Morgan states, felt he was "born too soon," (ix). Morgan's biography is well-organized and straightforward but is not strictly chronological. While he attempts to offer a basically linear account of Franklin's life in the context of his many achievements, Morgan presents Franklin's life more in terms of overarching themes than of how the man proceeded from childhood through old age. For example, Morgan begins by describing Franklin's fascination with the oceanic world, which led him to investigate other scientific processes and manifestations including lightening. Moreover, Franklin's spirituality and religiosity followed him throughout his career, influencing every aspect of his life. Franklin was not an overtly religious man although he did have close connections to the Quakers due to his residence in Pennsylvania. Morgan also stresses Franklin's social skills, which came in handy for a politician and for someone deeply devoted to the public welfare and to promoting civil service. Although Franklin retained respect for and devotion to the British crown, he also became one of the seminal figures of American history.

Not everything about Franklin's life is admirable....

For instance, his view on race and ethnicity were "as politically incorrect in 1751 as it would be today," (77). Morgan notes that Franklin wanted to "keep America white," and even considered many Europeans to be of tainted blood (77). In spite of these shortcomings, Franklin was, according to Morgan, an upstanding individual. The author's salutary portrait of Benjamin Franklin might seem skewed but it is an opinion based squarely on facts found in the source material. Franklin, although he might have held controversial views on race and politics, was a genius scientist and adept politician who helped manifest his vision for the creation of a new nation. Furthermore, Morgan shows how Franklin incorporated his personal beliefs into his public life and was above all a man of integrity.
Edmund S. Morgan fulfills his purpose of presenting a positive picture of Benjamin Franklin with this autobiography. In about 330 pages, the author offers a wealth of material related to Franklin's life, exposing his inner longings and his personal ambitions in a way that many historians cannot due to their unwillingness to take a personal stance on any historical figure. Morgan obviously admires Benjamin Franklin and hopes to enrich the public's understanding of his life and his accomplishments. In doing so, Morgan offers the layperson a scholarly, well-researched, and reputable biography that is nevertheless approachable and easy to read.

Works Cited

Morgan, Edmund S. Benjamin Franklin. New Haven:…