The glass harmonica, also known as the glass armonica, was invented by Benjamin Franklin in 1761. Franklin's design involved a series of glass bowls or goblets of different sizes mounted on a spindle and played by rubbing the rims with wet fingers. The instrument gained popularity in the 18th century and was used by notable composers like Mozart and Beethoven.
Franklin was in Paris from 1777 to 1785. He first mentioned his bifocal lenses in 1784, and refers to them as "my invention" without giving any more detail.
In 1779, he ordered some eye glasses, that were more time-consuming and expensive than normal, and it is POSSIBLE that the delay and cost were due to these being bifocal.
A 1789 letter from a friend of Franklin states that Ben had been wearing double lenses for decades.
In other words, the evidence is ambiguous. He might have invented them in Paris, or maybe while still in Philadelphia. Or he might have discovered them while in London, and simply claimed them as his idea.
There were periods of strained relations between Benjamin Franklin and his brother James. Ben worked for James at his printing shop, but their differing political and religious views caused conflicts. However, later in life, they reconciled and had a better relationship.
George Washington, as the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution, played a vital role in leading the fight for independence and later became the first President of the United States. Thomas Jefferson, with his role in writing the Declaration of Independence and his influence in shaping the nation's early government, was also pivotal in the birth of our nation.
Ben Parker, the uncle of Peter Parker (also known as Spider-Man), was killed in a street robbery. He encountered the robber and tried to intervene, but the criminal shot him. This tragic event serves as a catalyst for Peter's decision to use his powers responsibly and become a superhero.
There is no historical evidence to support the claim that Benjamin Franklin had an illegitimate son. Franklin had three known children – William, Francis, and Sarah – all of whom were born to his wife Deborah Read.
Benjamin Franklin held some racist views and beliefs throughout his life. He owned enslaved people, published racist caricatures, and made derogatory statements about Native Americans. However, it is also important to note that he later became an abolitionist and worked towards ending slavery in his later years.
Benjamin Franklin became enormously popular with the people of France.
Benjamin Franklin did not invent the iron furnace, but he did improve upon existing designs. In 1742, he developed a more efficient iron stove called the Franklin stove, which allowed for better heating with less fuel consumption. However, the first iron furnaces had already been in use for hundreds of years before Franklin's time.
Before he became a famous inventor, Benjamin Franklin was treated with skepticism and sometimes even dismissed by others. Many saw him as an unconventional character due to his curiosity and experimentation. However, Franklin's wit and intelligence also earned him respect from some individuals who recognized his potential and talent.
several things, including the lightning rod, the bifocals, and the Franklin stove. He was also known for his experiments with electricity and his discoveries in the field.
Some well-known autobiographers include Maya Angelou, Anne Frank, Nelson Mandela, and Malala Yousafzai.
Benjamin Banneker did most of his work in a small cabin on his family's farm in Maryland. It was in this cabin that he conducted his astronomical observations, constructed his clocks, and wrote his almanacs.
Yes, Benjamin Franklin often went against the status quo. He challenged traditional beliefs and practices by advocating for American independence, promoting scientific inquiry, and supporting abolitionist efforts. He was a polymath who constantly sought to challenge and improve the existing systems and norms.
Benjamin Franklin visited several countries throughout his life. Some of the countries he visited include England, France, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. He traveled to these countries for various reasons, including diplomatic missions, scientific exploration, and to further his political and intellectual pursuits.
Yes, Adam Smith's book "The Wealth of Nations" greatly influenced Benjamin Franklin. Franklin was an avid reader and supporter of Smith's ideas on free trade and the benefits of a market economy. Franklin even corresponded with Smith and expressed his admiration for his work.
AC (alternating current) electricity was not discovered by a single individual. It was the result of years of research and contributions by several scientists and inventors, with Nikola Tesla and George Westinghouse playing crucial roles. Tesla made significant advancements in AC power transmission, while Westinghouse was instrumental in developing the infrastructure and commercializing AC power systems.
Benjamin Franklin founded the University of Pennsylvania in 1740, now one of the Ivy schools. The University of Pennsylvania claims to be, not the first college (undergraduate only), but the first university (post-undergraduate school) because they founded a medical school in 1765.
In "The Way to Wealth," Benjamin Franklin emphasizes the importance of hard work, frugality, and self-discipline as a means to achieve success and wealth. He encourages individuals to prioritize industry and thrift, warning against laziness and extravagance. Franklin also highlights the idea of personal responsibility and self-reliance, promoting the idea that individuals have the power to shape their own destinies through their actions.
Benjamin Franklin's life in Boston before he left was marked by his involvement in various civic and intellectual pursuits. He worked as a printer and publisher, established his own newspaper, and contributed to Boston's cultural and educational institutions. He also became involved in politics and public service, serving as a member of the colonial legislature and advocating for various social reforms. Overall, Franklin was a respected and influential figure in Boston's community before his departure.
There is no direct connection between Mozart and Benjamin Franklin. They both lived during the same period (18th century) but in different parts of the world (Mozart in Austria and Franklin in America). They were exceptional figures in their respective fields, with Mozart being a renowned composer and Franklin a polymath known for his scientific and political achievements.