• The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin (AmazonClassics Edition)

  • By: Benjamin Franklin
  • Narrated by: Malcolm Hillgartner
  • Length: 6 hrs and 40 mins
  • 4.5 out of 5 stars (190 ratings)

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The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin (AmazonClassics Edition)  By  cover art

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin (AmazonClassics Edition)

By: Benjamin Franklin
Narrated by: Malcolm Hillgartner
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Publisher's summary

Written between 1717 and 1790, and originally referred to by its author as simply Memoirs, Benjamin Franklin’s autobiography is considered the pioneering example of the genre. In this influential account of the American Dream in action, Franklin recounts his early life, his inventions, his quest for virtue and self-improvement, and his political achievements. The unfinished work is a vivid depiction of life in early America, as well as a relatable and inspiring portrait of one of its revolutionary thinkers.

AmazonClassics brings you timeless works from iconic authors. Ideal for anyone who wants to read a great work for the first time or revisit an old favorite, these new editions open the door to the stories and ideas that have shaped our world.

Revised edition: Previously published as The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, this edition of The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin (AmazonClassics Edition) includes editorial revisions.

Public Domain (P)2018 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.

What listeners say about The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin (AmazonClassics Edition)

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A great book

A wonderful book that I found to be developmental and maturative for a young man coming of age such as myself. I found this book to be highly relatable and generally worthwhile and I found great relation with the author. I further highly recommend this book.

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Discover the Genius of Ben Franklin in His Words

"The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin" is an absolute masterpiece written by one of the most influential figures in American history. Ben Franklin's life story is a testament to his wisdom, wit, and character. This book is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand his legacy and the legacy of America itself. The writing is clear, engaging, and full of fascinating anecdotes, making it a truly enjoyable and enlightening read. Whether you are a history buff, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just someone looking to gain a deeper appreciation of the American story, you won't regret picking up this classic work. ---- Bro. Hank Wilson

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Every politician and patriot should read this book word for word. Then..

I hope you get to read these musings directly transcribed from Ben Franklin’s brilliant and humble mind. Out country would not experience the shenanigans we witness daily from Capitol Hill if representatives we citizens sent to DC could at least expose their shallow divisive minds to the light in Franklin’s soul. I hope one or two open minds can bask in wisdom for the few hours it would take.

I, for one, will take the daily regimen he imposed upon himself, hoping my mind and soul will Unite with the Souls that Constituted and Created the guidance written down to compass US back towards a More Perfect Union.

My inner compass needed the reset. I don’t believe I am alone. The inventive mind of this Forefather wrote his experiments down, choosing not to debate or defend them for the doubting masses. He knew a nonbeliever only had to copy the same experiment to experience truth for themselves.
He invented the lightening rod and gave its power to prevent fires freely to the world, grounding barns and houses, probably the one you live in now, 275 years later.

I’m going to reconstruct his 13 week regimen to nurture virtue, hoping for outcomes similar to those set down in The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin.

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Ben Franklin was a bad mutha!

For those who only know of Ben Franklin from their High School history class, what in injustice. An example of an American hero, scholar and an example of all that can be accomplished in one’s lifetime.

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Brilliant man way ahead of his time

An amazing introspective look into a highly intelligent hard working man who was self taught and cared about improving his society. Good narrator as well, perfect for the story.

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Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin was a brilliant man! I would like to learn more about his wife.

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Good reminder of this great figure

It is a good book, but I was expecting more from his life between 1770-1788. Anyhow, the book provides good insights of Franklin’s wisdom.

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Wait, you missed a part

it's hard to say that such a prominent founder did such a poor job with this work, however, given that it is unfinished it's fair to say that the most games parts of his life were left out.

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