DESC: One of America's most talented 18th-century historical figures, Benjamin Franklin was, among many other things, a politician, inventor, ambassador, and printer who succeeded in just about everything he attempted. Not only famous for taking part in crafting the Constitution, Franklin also helped open the country's first lending library, as well as assisting with the founding of Philadelphia's first volunteer fire station. Franklin excelled from an early age, eventually opening up his own printing shop before his ascent into American politics. Exploring Franklin's life from early childhood, through his many careers until his death in 1790, this reader is crammed with information and accompanied by a range of B&W and color prints, portraits, and photographs. Includes an interview with bestselling author Walter Issacson (who has written extensively about Franklin), as well as a timeline.