The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin
by Benjamin Franklin (1791)
One of the most influential memoirs in American history, Benjamin Franklin's autobiography chronicles his extraordinary life journey from humble beginnings as the son of a Boston candlemaker to becoming one of the most celebrated figures of the 18th century.
The narrative provides invaluable insights into Franklin's philosophy of self-improvement, his scientific discoveries, his role in founding the United States, and his diplomatic achievements. More than just a historical document, it remains a timeless guide to personal development and the pursuit of excellence.
Mind Map
Franklin's 13 Virtues
Franklin developed a system of 13 virtues to cultivate moral perfection. He tracked his progress daily using a chart, focusing on one virtue per week while maintaining awareness of all 13.
1. Temperance
"Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation."
2. Silence
"Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself; avoid trifling conversation."
3. Order
"Let all your things have their places; let each part of your business have its time."
4. Resolution
"Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without fail what you resolve."
5. Frugality
"Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself; i.e., waste nothing."
6. Industry
"Lose no time; be always employed in something useful; cut off all unnecessary actions."
7. Sincerity
"Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly, and, if you speak, speak accordingly."
8. Justice
"Wrong none by doing injuries, or omitting the benefits that are your duty."
9. Moderation
"Avoid extremes; forbear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve."
10. Cleanliness
"Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, clothes, or habitation."
11. Tranquility
"Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common or unavoidable."
12. Chastity
"Rarely use venery but for health or offspring, never to dullness, weakness, or the injury of your own or another's peace or reputation."
13. Humility
"Imitate Jesus and Socrates."
Key Highlights
These are some of the most highlighted passages from "The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin" that capture the essence of Benjamin Franklin's philosophy.
"I conceiv'd the bold and arduous project of arriving at moral perfection. I wish'd to live without committing any fault at any time; I would conquer all that either natural inclination, custom, or company might lead me into."
Part Two: On Moral Perfection
"In reality, there is, perhaps, no one of our natural passions so hard to subdue as pride. Disguise it, struggle with it, beat it down, stifle it, mortify it as much as one pleases, it is still alive, and will every now and then peep out and show itself."
Part Two: On Pride and Humility
"Energy and persistence conquer all things."
Various Maxims
"Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn."
On Education