Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

Franklin traces his family ancestry back to Ecton, England and describes his childhood in Boston, early education, and apprenticeship to his brother in printing.

Franklin describes his apprenticeship under his brother James, early writing attempts, and eventual escape from Boston to pursue printing in Philadelphia.

Franklin recounts his journey to Philadelphia as a seventeen-year-old, his arrival in the city, and his initial employment with various printers.

Franklin describes his return to Boston after several months, his reunion with family, and his father's initial opposition to his business plans.

Franklin discusses his friendships with fellow young men in Philadelphia and their literary pursuits and intellectual discussions.

Franklin recounts his eighteen-month stay in London working as a printer and his various intellectual pursuits and acquaintances.

Franklin describes establishing his printing business, partnership with Hugh Meredith, and early success with printing jobs.

Franklin recounts his growing prosperity, founding of the Junto club, establishment of subscription library, and courtship and marriage to Deborah Read.

Franklin describes his systematic plan for self-improvement through the cultivation of thirteen virtues with a detailed self-examination method.

Franklin discusses publishing Poor Richard's Almanac, establishing a printing house in Charleston, language learning, and personal advancement.

Franklin recounts his early public service initiatives including city watch reform, fire company establishment, and reaction to Reverend Whitefield's ministry.

Franklin describes organizing defense against French threat, forming militia association, and establishing the Franklin stove invention.

Franklin recounts establishing an academy, hospital foundation, street improvements, and appointment as postmaster of Pennsylvania.

Franklin presents his plan for colonial union at the Albany Congress to provide mutual defense and internal governance.

Franklin describes conflicts with provincial governors over taxation and proprietary estate exemptions.

Franklin details his role supplying wagons and provisions for General Braddock's failed military expedition against the French.

Franklin describes his military service building forts and organizing defense of Pennsylvania's frontier against Indian attacks.

Franklin recounts his pioneering electrical experiments, correspondence with the Royal Society, and recognition of his scientific contributions.

Franklin describes his appointment as Pennsylvania's agent to England and his lengthy stay there representing colonial interests.