Benjamin Franklin  was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. A noted polymath, Franklin was a leading author and printer, political theorist, politician, postmaster, scientist, inventor, satirist, civic activist, statesman, and diplomat. As a scientist, he was a major figure in the history of physics for his discoveries and theories regarding electricity. He invented the lightning rod, bifocals, the Franklin stove, and a carriage odometer. He formed both the first public lending library in America and the first fire department in Pennsylvania.  

A political cartoon by Franklin urged the colonies to join together during
the French and Indian War.

Benjamin Franklin began publishing the yearly almanac under
the pseudonym of Poor Richard or Richard Saunders. It was in
publication from 1732 to 1758 and was the best seller in the
colonies. Print runs reached 10,000 per year.