This companion provides a comprehensive survey of the life, work and legacy of Benjamin Franklin – the oldest, most distinctive, and multifaceted of the founders. * Includes contributions from across a range of academic disciplines* Combines traditional and cutting-edge scholarship, from accomplished and emerging experts in the field * Pays special attention to the American Revolution, the Enlightenment, journalism, colonial American society, and themes of race, class, and gender * Places Franklin in the context of recent work in political theory, American Studies, American literature, material culture studies, popular culture, and international relations