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Ezekiel J. Emanuel, MD, PhD
Welcome to Benjamin Franklin and His World! In this online version of the University of Pennsylvania's SNF Paideia course, we explore the life of one of the United States’ most important historical figures. We examine Franklin’s early life growing up in the American colonies, his professional career as a printer and scientist, and his role in the American Revolution and the founding the United States as a new nation on the world stage.
Read more
Welcome to Benjamin Franklin and His World! In this online version of the University of Pennsylvania's SNF Paideia course, we explore the life of one of the United States’ most important historical figures. We examine Franklin’s early life growing up in the American colonies, his professional career as a printer and scientist, and his role in the American Revolution and the founding the United States as a new nation on the world stage.
Read more
Welcome to Benjamin Franklin and His World! In this online version of the University of Pennsylvania's SNF Paideia course, we explore the life of one of the United States’ most important historical figures. We examine Franklin’s early life growing up in the American colonies, his professional career as a printer and scientist, and his role in the American Revolution and the founding the United States as a new nation on the world stage.
We will also confront the moral issues that complicate the legacy of Benjamin Franklin, such as his connection to slavery and the racism that was prevalent during his time. We’ll wrestle with how to evaluate Franklin in the present day as we examine his life through both a modern lens and the historical context in which he lived.
Support for this course has generously been provided by the SNF Paideia Program at the University of Pennsylvania and the Colton Foundation.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/8f9cli/benjamin
What's inside
Syllabus
Who Is Benjamin Franklin?
In this first week of the course, we will provide an overview of the course, and introduce the key ideas and themes that will guide our exploration of Benjamin Franklin’s life and legacy. We will take a look at Franklin’s early years in Boston, Philadelphia, and London. Then we will provide a closer examination of what life was like in the British colonies during the 18th Century.
Read more
Syllabus
Who Is Benjamin Franklin?
In this first week of the course, we will provide an overview of the course, and introduce the key ideas and themes that will guide our exploration of Benjamin Franklin’s life and legacy. We will take a look at Franklin’s early years in Boston, Philadelphia, and London. Then we will provide a closer examination of what life was like in the British colonies during the 18th Century.
Read more
Franklin's Professional Career
This week we will explore Franklin’s professional career as a printer, scientist, inventor, and politician.
Revolution and a New Constitution
This week we will explore the lead-up to the Revolutionary War, how Benjamin Franklin became involved in the Colonies' fight for independence, and his role in the drafting of the Constitution.
Wrestling with Franklin's Legacy
This week we will examine issues from Benjamin Franklin’s life that complicate his legacy, and consider how to evaluate him as a historical figure.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Examines Benjamin Franklin, an important historical figure in the United States
Emphasizes critical thinking by examining the moral issues surrounding Benjamin Franklin's legacy
Taught by Ezekiel J. Emanuel, a prominent figure in bioethics
Offered by the University of Pennsylvania, a reputable institution for historical studies
Explored through the lens of modern ethical considerations
Requires an understanding of the historical context of 18th-century British colonies
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Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Benjamin Franklin and His World with these
activities:
Organize Course Materials for Effective Study
Show steps
Improves organization, enhances retention, and facilitates efficient review.
Show steps
-
Review course syllabus, lecture notes, and readings.
-
Create a system for organizing materials (e.g., folders, digital notes).
-
Sort and file materials according to topics, chronological order, or other meaningful categories.
-
Review organized materials regularly.
Review Basic Concepts in American History
Show steps
Strengthens foundational knowledge and improves understanding of Franklin's historical context.
Browse courses on
American History
Show steps
-
Review key events, figures, and themes in American history.
-
Read articles or watch documentaries on Colonial America.
-
Take practice quizzes or review previous notes to reinforce knowledge.
Read 'Benjamin Franklin: An American Life' by Walter Isaacson
Show steps
Enriches your understanding of Benjamin Franklin's life, politics, and scientific contributions.
View
The Code Breaker -- Young Readers Edition
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book's introduction and first three chapters.
-
Read chapters 4-7 and take notes on Franklin's role in the American Revolution.
-
Read chapters 8-11 and summarize Franklin's scientific discoveries and inventions.
-
Read the book's conclusion and write a brief essay reflecting on Franklin's legacy.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Design a Timeline of Benjamin Franklin's Life
Show steps
Reinforces key events and chronology of Franklin's life and contributions.
Show steps
-
Gather information about Benjamin Franklin's life from reliable sources.
-
Create a timeline using a digital tool or draw it by hand.
-
Include major events, accomplishments, and turning points in Franklin's life.
Analyze Primary Sources Related to Benjamin Franklin
Show steps
Develops critical thinking skills and enhances understanding of Franklin's historical context.
Browse courses on
Primary Sources
Show steps
-
Visit the National Archives website and browse available primary sources related to Benjamin Franklin.
-
Select two or three primary sources and read them carefully.
-
Analyze the sources for their historical context, author's perspective, and potential biases.
-
Write a short summary of your findings.
Gather Resources on Benjamin Franklin's Scientific Contributions
Show steps
Expands knowledge of Franklin's scientific work and its significance.
Show steps
-
Search academic databases and websites for articles and research papers on Franklin's scientific contributions.
-
Gather relevant books, documentaries, and online resources.
-
Organize resources into a comprehensive bibliography or annotated list.
Attend Workshop on Historical Document Analysis
Show steps
Provides hands-on experience with primary sources, enhancing interpretation and evaluation skills.
Browse courses on
Historical Analysis
Show steps
-
Research available workshops on historical document analysis.
-
Register for and attend the workshop.
-
Actively participate in exercises and discussions.
-
Apply learned techniques to relevant primary sources.
Discuss Franklin's Legacy and Its Relevance Today
Show steps
Fosters critical thinking, encourages diverse perspectives, and deepens understanding of Franklin's enduring impact.
Show steps
-
Form a small study group with classmates.
-
Read and discuss assigned materials on Franklin's legacy.
-
Share and debate different interpretations of Franklin's actions and beliefs.
-
Consider how Franklin's ideas and values resonate in contemporary society.
Organize Course Materials for Effective Study
Show steps
Improves organization, enhances retention, and facilitates efficient review.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review course syllabus, lecture notes, and readings.
- Create a system for organizing materials (e.g., folders, digital notes).
- Sort and file materials according to topics, chronological order, or other meaningful categories.
- Review organized materials regularly.
Review Basic Concepts in American History
Show steps
Strengthens foundational knowledge and improves understanding of Franklin's historical context.
Browse courses on
American History
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review key events, figures, and themes in American history.
- Read articles or watch documentaries on Colonial America.
- Take practice quizzes or review previous notes to reinforce knowledge.
Read 'Benjamin Franklin: An American Life' by Walter Isaacson
Show steps
Enriches your understanding of Benjamin Franklin's life, politics, and scientific contributions.
View
The Code Breaker -- Young Readers Edition
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book's introduction and first three chapters.
- Read chapters 4-7 and take notes on Franklin's role in the American Revolution.
- Read chapters 8-11 and summarize Franklin's scientific discoveries and inventions.
- Read the book's conclusion and write a brief essay reflecting on Franklin's legacy.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Design a Timeline of Benjamin Franklin's Life
Show steps
Reinforces key events and chronology of Franklin's life and contributions.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather information about Benjamin Franklin's life from reliable sources.
- Create a timeline using a digital tool or draw it by hand.
- Include major events, accomplishments, and turning points in Franklin's life.
Analyze Primary Sources Related to Benjamin Franklin
Show steps
Develops critical thinking skills and enhances understanding of Franklin's historical context.
Browse courses on
Primary Sources
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Visit the National Archives website and browse available primary sources related to Benjamin Franklin.
- Select two or three primary sources and read them carefully.
- Analyze the sources for their historical context, author's perspective, and potential biases.
- Write a short summary of your findings.
Gather Resources on Benjamin Franklin's Scientific Contributions
Show steps
Expands knowledge of Franklin's scientific work and its significance.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search academic databases and websites for articles and research papers on Franklin's scientific contributions.
- Gather relevant books, documentaries, and online resources.
- Organize resources into a comprehensive bibliography or annotated list.
Attend Workshop on Historical Document Analysis
Show steps
Provides hands-on experience with primary sources, enhancing interpretation and evaluation skills.
Browse courses on
Historical Analysis
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research available workshops on historical document analysis.
- Register for and attend the workshop.
- Actively participate in exercises and discussions.
- Apply learned techniques to relevant primary sources.
Discuss Franklin's Legacy and Its Relevance Today
Show steps
Fosters critical thinking, encourages diverse perspectives, and deepens understanding of Franklin's enduring impact.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Form a small study group with classmates.
- Read and discuss assigned materials on Franklin's legacy.
- Share and debate different interpretations of Franklin's actions and beliefs.
- Consider how Franklin's ideas and values resonate in contemporary society.
Career center
Learners who complete Benjamin Franklin and His World will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Historian
Historian
Historians research, analyze, interpret, and write about the past, studying historical documents, artifacts, and other evidence to gain a better understanding of human history. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing historians with a deeper understanding of the historical context of the 18th century, the American Revolution, and the founding of the United States.
Archivist
Archivist
Archivists preserve, organize, and make accessible historical documents and artifacts, ensuring that they are available for research and study. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing archivists with a deeper understanding of the historical context of the documents and artifacts they care for, as well as the life and legacy of one of the most important figures in American history.
Museum curator
Museum curator
Museum curators research, acquire, preserve, and display museum collections, ensuring that they are accessible to the public. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing museum curators with a deeper understanding of the historical context of museum collections related to the 18th century, the American Revolution, and the founding of the United States.
Librarian
Librarian
Librarians help people find and access information, providing guidance and assistance to library patrons. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing librarians with a deeper understanding of the historical context of the books and documents in their collections, as well as the life and legacy of one of the most important figures in American history.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers develop and implement lesson plans for students, providing instruction and guidance in a variety of subjects. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing teachers with a deeper understanding of the historical context of the 18th century, the American Revolution, and the founding of the United States.
Archaeologist
Archaeologist
Archaeologists study past human societies by excavating and examining material remains, such as artifacts, architecture, and ecofacts. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing archaeologists with a deeper understanding of the historical context of material remains from the 18th century, the American Revolution, and the founding of the United States.
Sociologist
Sociologist
Sociologists study society and social behavior, analyzing social structures, institutions, and processes. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing sociologists with a deeper understanding of the historical context of social systems in the 18th century, the American Revolution, and the founding of the United States.
Political Scientist
Political Scientist
Political scientists study politics and government, analyzing political systems, policies, and behavior. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing political scientists with a deeper understanding of the historical context of political systems in the 18th century, the American Revolution, and the founding of the United States.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study human beings and their societies, analyzing cultural and physical characteristics, as well as social and linguistic behavior. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing anthropologists with a deeper understanding of the historical context of cultural systems in the 18th century, the American Revolution, and the founding of the United States.
Economist
Economist
Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services, analyzing economic data to make informed decisions. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing economists with a deeper understanding of the historical context of economic systems in the 18th century, the American Revolution, and the founding of the United States.
Philosopher
Philosopher
Philosophers study the nature of existence, knowledge, and morality, analyzing philosophical texts, history, and traditions. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing philosophers with a deeper understanding of the historical context of philosophical systems in the 18th century, the American Revolution, and the founding of the United States.
Writer
Writer
Writers create written content for a variety of purposes, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and journalism. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing writers with a deeper understanding of the historical context of writing in the 18th century, the American Revolution, and the founding of the United States.
Lawyer
Lawyer
Lawyers advise and represent clients in legal matters, applying legal principles to solve problems and protect their clients' interests. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing lawyers with a deeper understanding of the historical context of legal systems in the 18th century, the American Revolution, and the founding of the United States.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists research, write, and report on current events, providing information to the public. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing journalists with a deeper understanding of the historical context of current events, as well as the life and legacy of one of the most important figures in American history.
Theologian
Theologian
Theologians study the nature of God and religious truth, analyzing religious texts, history, and traditions. This course on Benjamin Franklin and His World may be useful in providing theologians with a deeper understanding of the historical context of religious systems in the 18th century, the American Revolution, and the founding of the United States.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/8f9cli/benjamin
Reading list
We've selected ten books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Benjamin Franklin and His World.
This is Franklin’s autobiography, which he wrote in four parts during his life. It provides a first-hand account of his life experiences and beliefs, with significant insight into how he viewed himself and the world around him.
This biography provides a comprehensive and well-balanced overview of Franklin's life and work. Drawing upon Franklin's letters, publications, and the recollections of those who knew him, Isaacson portrays Franklin as a complex and multifaceted individual, whose contributions to the American Revolution and the founding of the United States were profound.
Save
The Library of America presents a comprehensive single-volume edition of the writings of Benjamin Franklin, America's Renaissance man and one of the most important figures in American history. Both revered and reviled throughout his lifetime and afterward, Franklin remains a fascinating and enigmatic figure, and his writings are essential reading for anyone interested in American history or the Enlightenment.
Save
A magisterial biography that draws on the latest scholarship to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date account of Franklin's life and work. Chernow's writing is lively and engaging, and he does an excellent job of bringing Franklin to life.
A Pulitzer Prize-winning biography that traces the trajectory of one of the most influential Founding Fathers, from his humble beginnings as a printer's apprentice to his pivotal role in the American Revolution and the creation of the United States.
Save
Provides a concise and readable overview of Franklin's life and career. It draws on the latest scholarship to present a well-rounded portrait of one of the most important figures in American history.
Save
Offers a sweeping narrative of Franklin's life and times. Brands draws on the latest scholarship to provide a comprehensive and engaging account of one of the most important figures in American history.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Franklin's political thought. Ketcham argues that Franklin was a pragmatic and moderate thinker who believed in the importance of compromise and consensus.
Save
Provides a detailed account of Franklin's role in the American Revolution. Morgan argues that Franklin was one of the most important figures in the movement for independence.
A convenient and affordable alternative to the larger collections of Franklin's writings, this volume includes his Autobiography, along with over one hundred of his most important speeches, essays, letters, and scientific writings, providing a thorough overview of his life, thought, and accomplishments.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/8f9cli/benjamin
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Effort
4 weeks of study, 2-4 hours/week
Level
Introductory
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Institution
University of Pennsylvania
Instructor
Ezekiel J. Emanuel, MD, PhD
Language
English
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Good to know
Examines Benjamin Franklin, an important historical figure in the United States
Emphasizes critical thinking by examining the moral issues surrounding Benjamin Franklin's legacy
Taught by Ezekiel J. Emanuel, a prominent figure in bioethics
Offered by the University of Pennsylvania, a reputable institution for historical studies
Explored through the lens of modern ethical considerations
Requires an understanding of the historical context of 18th-century British colonies
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