On This Day: Nov 14, 1776, the St. James Chronicle of London, an English newspaper, made a historic announcement that Benjamin Franklin had aligned himself with the rebellion in America. This revelation came at a critical juncture during the American Revolutionary War. Franklin, a polymath and key Founding Father, initially advocated for reconciliation between the American colonies and Britain. However, as tensions heightened and the fervor for independence grew, Franklin underwent a profound shift in allegiance.
Beyond his diplomatic endeavors, Franklin played a central role in drafting the Declaration of Independence as a member of the Committee of Five. While Thomas Jefferson is credited as the primary author, Franklin’s wisdom and influence left an indelible mark on the foundational document.
His experiences in Europe as an ambassador were equally impactful, as he tirelessly worked to secure French military and financial support, which proved instrumental in the success of the American Revolution. Franklin’s multifaceted contributions, from shaping key documents to securing crucial alliances, underscored his pivotal role in the establishment of the United States as an independent nation.
