The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin
by H.W. Brands
The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin by H.W. Brands holds a highly rated rating of 4.09 out of 5, based on 15.3K reader ratings. First published in 2000. The book spans 765 pages.
About The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin
National Bestseller He was the foremost American of his day, yet today he is little more than a mythic caricature in the public imagination. Benjamin Franklin, perhaps the pivotal figure in colonial and revolutionary America, comes vividly to life in this masterly biography.Wit, diplomat, scientist, philosopher, businessman, inventor, and bon vivant, Benjamin Franklin was in every respect America’s first Renaissance man. From penniless runaway to highly successful printer, from ardently loyal subject of Britain to architect of an alliance with France that ensured America’s independence, Franklin went from obscurity to become one of the world’s most admired figures, whose circle included the likes of Voltaire, Hume, Burke, and Kant. Drawing on previously unpublished letters and a host of other sources, acclaimed historian H. W. Brands has written a thoroughly engaging biography of the eighteenth-century genius. A much needed reminder of Franklin’s greatness and humanity, The First American is a work of meticulous scholarship that provides a magnificent tour of a legendary historical figure, a vital era in American life, and the countless arenas in which the protean Franklin left his legacy.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Author | H.W. Brands |
| Published | 2000 |
| Pages | 765 |
| Kindle Price | $13.99 |
| Genres | Biography & Memoir, History, Non-Fiction |
| Average Rating | 4.09 / 5.00 |
| Total Ratings | 15,323 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What genre is The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin?
The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin is categorized as Biography & Memoir, History, Non-Fiction. Its primary genre classification is Biography & Memoir.
Is The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin worth reading?
Based on 15.3K reader ratings, The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin has an average score of 4.09 out of 5.00, which is considered "Highly Rated."
How many pages is The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin?
The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin has 765 pages. It is a longer read suited for dedicated readers.
Who wrote The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin?
The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin was written by H.W. Brands. It was first published in 2000.
What is the ISBN for The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin?
The ISBN-13 for The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin is 9780385495400.0.
How much does The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin cost on Kindle?
The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin is available on Kindle for $13.99. Pricing may vary by region and promotional offers.
Data sourced from community book ratings and reviews. Last updated: April 15, 2026
