Federalist Radio Hour Why Ben Franklin Was ‘The Greatest American’
15 snips
Jul 1, 2025 
Mark Skousen, an author and descendant of Benjamin Franklin, dives into the fascinating life of the Founding Father. He discusses Franklin's unique contributions as an inventor, civic leader, and diplomat. The conversation highlights Franklin's evolution on topics like slavery and debt, showcasing his transformative journey from loyalist to revolutionary. Skousen reflects on how Franklin would navigate today's challenges, emphasizing his belief in knowledge and humanitarian values. Franklin's legacy continues to resonate, shaping America's identity in profound ways.
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Franklin's Family Anecdote
- Mark Skousen shares the story of tracing his relation to Benjamin Franklin through a previously unknown illegitimate line.
- Franklin's lineage includes several illegitimate children, reflecting his reputation as a "ladies' man" but also a modern thinker respecting women.
Franklin's Versatile Genius
- Franklin was history's most versatile genius with 22 careers across science, politics, and business.
- This breadth surpasses other founders and likens him to polymaths like Leonardo da Vinci or Elon Musk.
Franklin's Editorial Impact
- Franklin edited Thomas Jefferson's phrase in the Declaration of Independence to read "self-evident" instead of "sacred and undeniable."
- This change reflected his secularism, though he later valued the stronger original phraseology.
