Franklin’s Ideal American

In Bejamin Franklin’s Autobiography he writes frequently of different ideals that he tries to encompass while encouraging fellow Americans to do the same. One of the values that Franklin writes about to a large extent is “industry.” Industry as a value is a theme that runs throughout the autobiography but he first explicitly writes about it when he mentions his father recounting the following proverb: “Seest thou a man diligent in his calling, he shall stand before kings, he shall not stand before mean men.” While he says that following this advice literally led him to meet several kings in his lifetime he also “considered industry as a means of obtaining wealth and distinction…”

One of the ways to Franklin tries to sell the ideal of industry is through humor. When he uses the proverb saying that industry can lead a man to stand before kings he makes a cheeky joke that says while following a proverb won’t always literally lead you down its path he actually ended up meeting 5 kings and dined with another.

16 thoughts on “Franklin’s Ideal American”

  1. Good observation about his interest in wealth and distinction, Jeremy. It’s easy to think that his emphasis on industry and humility means that he wants to be an ordinary guy, but he does see these techniques as means of getting ahead. bAnd yes, cheeky jokes, indeed!

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  4. Franklin’s writings continue to inspire individuals to strive for excellence in their endeavors, reminding us that industry is not merely a path to personal success but a virtue that contributes to the betterment of society and the opportunities it can offer and also I can check here for lords of papers. His words serve as a timeless reminder of the importance of diligence and dedication in our pursuit of knowledge, success, and personal growth.

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  9. Benjamin Franklin’s ability to weave humor and wisdom into his writing and speeches made him a truly remarkable communicator. What’s fascinating about his discussion of “industry” in his autobiography is not just the value he places on hard work but how he conveys it in such an engaging, relatable way. That cheeky remark about standing before kings highlights his skill in making even profound ideas feel approachable and memorable.

    Franklin had a way of speaking that drew people in, making them laugh while also inspiring them to think deeply. He wasn’t just preaching ideals like industry; he was embodying them in a way that made others want to follow suit. It’s one thing to encourage people to work hard; it’s another to show them, through wit and personal experience, that diligence can truly open doors—sometimes even royal ones!

    I admire how Franklin’s humor wasn’t just about entertainment. It served a purpose. It softened his advice, made him relatable, and gave his words staying power. Whether through his speeches, writing, or even his presence at social gatherings, Franklin knew how to command a room—not just with authority but with charm and good-natured wit. He wasn’t just a great thinker; he was a great persuader, and that’s why his legacy continues to resonate.

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