Guess the Historical Figure: Printer, Inventor, Founder

Guess the historical figure:
1. In 1775, he became the first Postmaster General of the American colonies.
2. He helped found one of America’s first lending libraries, in Philadelphia.
3. He is widely credited with inventing bifocal glasses.
4. His portrait appears on the US $100 bill.
💡 Hint

He is famous for a stormy experiment involving a kite and a key.

Reveal answer

Benjamin Franklin.

Benjamin Franklin was appointed the first Postmaster General by the Continental Congress in 1775. In 1731 he helped found the Library Company of Philadelphia, a subscription library. He is widely credited with inventing bifocals, and his portrait is on the $100 bill. He is also known for his experiments with electricity and for helping draft the Declaration of Independence.

Did you know?Franklin was never president, yet he’s one of the most recognizable faces in American history. He signed both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution and served as a diplomat in France. His nickname “the First American” reflects how many parts of early American life he influenced.

About This Puzzle

This American led many lives in one: businessman, scientist, writer, diplomat. Try to guess who it is after each clue, before you read the next one.

How to Think About It

Clue 4 is the easiest if you’ve ever seen a $100 bill. If you want a challenge, stop at clue 2 and think: which famous American is most connected to Philadelphia and to printing and books?

🇺🇸 Up nextGuess the Toy: The Spring That Walks Downstairs→

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