As a Christian, I nearly automatically turn to Jesus as the most significant figure in history, and my favorite. Because he is presumed (in my humble opinion) to be the natural choice of many bloggers and/or Americans, I am going to choose my second most favorite historical figure.
As a teenager, this individual wrote letters and essays under the pen name “Silence Dogood”, a middle-aged widowed woman who doled out advice to readers about everything from fashion to women’s rights and religious hypocrisy, regularly poking fun at everyday occurrences of the time.
The “Silence Dogood” Letters
You may recall Nicholas Cage’s 2004 film, “National Treasure”, where his character, Benjamin Gates, steals the Declaration of Independence on a seemingly unending quest to clear his father’s (Jon Voight) name.
As each clue brings him to yet another clue, Gates finds himself using lemon juice and a hair dryer to reveal an Ottendorf cipher penned in invisible ink on the back of the Declaration. The message is eventually decrypted to read “The key in Silence undetected”, leading Gates to the “Silence Dogood” letters, and ultimately to yet another clue.
If you have seen “National Treasure” or any of its sequels (or read the title of today’s post), you’ll know the historical figure I’m referencing is Benjamin Franklin.
Exploring the Genius of Ben Franklin
Benjamin Franklin, a multifaceted and brilliant mind of the 18th century, transcended the roles of writer, inventor, scientist, and statesman. Born in Boston in 1706, Franklin’s remarkable life saw him become one of the Founding Fathers of the United States.
His pioneering experiments with electricity, immortalized by the legendary kite-flying experiment, earned him international acclaim. Franklin’s inquisitive nature and penchant for innovation led to groundbreaking discoveries in various fields, from the nature of lightning to the efficiency of wood-burning stoves.
As a shrewd diplomat, he played a pivotal role in securing crucial alliances for the fledgling American nation. However, it is his enduring legacy as the creator of “Poor Richard’s Almanack” and his prolific writings under the pseudonym “Silence Dogood” that encapsulate his wit, wisdom, and unwavering advocacy for social progress. Join me in celebrating the extraordinary life and times of this iconic figure who continues to inspire and captivate generations worldwide.
Additional Resources about Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin’s multifaceted persona, encompassing his roles as an innovative inventor, prolific writer, astute diplomat, and influential Founding Father, renders him an exceptional candidate for the title of my favorite historical figure. His enduring impact on various facets of society, from scientific advancements to social progress, coupled with his indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to the betterment of humanity, establishes Franklin as an inspirational and noteworthy figure deserving of admiration and recognition.
NOW IT’S YOUR TURN
Who is your favorite historical figure and what makes them stand out to you? Whether it’s a renowned leader, a trailblazing scientist, or a captivating artist, every historical figure holds a unique place in our collective memory. By sharing your favorite historical figure and the reasons behind your choice, you not only celebrate their legacy but also offer a window into their enduring impact on our world.
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