Franklin Matrix

"Nothing stops the man who desires to achieve. Every obstacle is simply a course to develop his achievement muscle. It's a strengthening of his powers of accomplishment." — Thomas Carlyle

Write a research-based essay where you describe the accomplishments of Ben Franklin, specifically focusing on Franklin's ability to respond in creative ways to challenges in the many spheres of his long life.  For example, among other things, your paper could describe his response to being denied an education as a child, his efforts to succeed in business, and his many challenging missions as America's first international diplomat.  When you choose your three sub-topics, remember that Franklin had significant accomplishments in a variety of areas: business, publishing, society, science, practical inventions, government, and diplomacy.  Choose sub-topics for which you have sufficient research material to make a strong case.  Moreover, choose sub-topics that develop the central idea: Franklin's creative response to challenges.

 

 

Challenges

Creative Path to Achievement

limited education

 

improve his character

 

succeed in business

 

 

improve society

 

 

explain nature, apply benefits to society

 

convince Penn's to share in taxes

 

 

reconcile colonists and England

 

 

Revolutionary Diplomatic Missions

Convince France to support the revolution
Work with difficult Adams
Arrange peace treaty with England