re than two decades, even though he published it under an assumed name, “published Poor Richard’s Almanac under the pseudonym of Richard Saunders. The Almanac, which continued for twenty-five years to contain his witty, worldly-wise sayings, played a very large part in bringing together and molding the American character which was at that time made up of so many diverse and scattered types” (Events 1). Franklin also founded the Philadelphia library during this period.
Part of the reason for Franklin’s enormous success was his continuous self-learning, his hard work and his constant sacrifice for the betterment of society. He could speak French, Italian, Latin and Spanish as well as other academic proficiencies. His interests were eclectic and ranged from politics to science. Another reason Franklin was able to exhibit such a major impact was because of the era in which he lived. At this time in American history nationalism was not yet created and Franklin, along with others, would be responsible for helping to create a unity among the diverse peoples populating the colonies. Yet, as Franklin developed into his late thirties and early forties, his attentions were primarily focused on politics and revolution. He published a propaganda piece in 1746 known as the Plain Truth, “a pamphlet on the necessity for disciplined defense” and he also formed a military company (Events 2).
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