On This Day, December 28, 1732, Benjamin Franklin, under the pseudonym Richard Saunders, began the publication of “Poor Richard’s Almanack.” This publication quickly became a staple in Colonial American households, offering a blend of seasonal weather forecasts, practical household hints, puzzles, and other amusements.
Franklin’s almanac distinguished itself with its witty aphorisms and proverbs, many of which emphasized frugality, hard work, and common sense, and have since become ingrained in American culture. Sayings such as “Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise,” and “A penny saved is a penny earned,” are attributed to the wisdom-filled pages of “Poor Richard’s.”
The almanac’s success was not just due to its content but also Franklin’s marketing genius. He created an entire persona for Richard Saunders, presenting him as a slightly cantankerous but endearing sage. “Poor Richard’s Almanack” was published annually for 25 years and played a significant role in shaping American literature and culture, showcasing Franklin’s multifaceted talents as a writer, humorist, and publisher.