INGENIOUS: A Biography of Benjamin Franklin, Scientist

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Join us for an engaging book talk with author Dick Munson talking about his new book, INGENIOUS: A Biography of Benjamin Franklin, Scientist.

Benjamin Franklin was one of the preeminent scientists of his time. Driven by curiosity, he conducted cutting-edge research on electricity, heat, ocean currents, weather patterns, chemical bonds, and plants. But today, Franklin is remembered more for his political prowess and diplomatic achievements than his scientific creativity.

In INGENIOUS, Richard Munson provides an incisive and rich account of Benjamin Franklin’s life and career, recovering this vital part of Franklin’s story, revealing his modern relevance, and offering a compelling portrait of a shrewd experimenter, clever innovator, and visionary physicist whose fame opened doors to negotiate French support and funding for American independence.

Munson’s riveting narrative explores how science underpins Franklin’s entire story—from tradesman to inventor to nation-founder—and argues that Franklin’s political life cannot be understood without giving proper credit to his scientific accomplishments.

Like all USCHS programs, this webinar is free and open to the public; registration is required.

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