Franklin’s Observations and Experiments on Electricity

5m 31s

Franklin made groundbreaking discoveries in his study of electricity. He wrote up his observations and experiments, which were published abroad and made him world-famous. He coined new terms—like “positive,” “negative,” “charge,” “conductor” and “battery.” And he proved that lightning was electrical in nature with his famous experiment in 1752 with a kite and a key.

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Corporate funding for BENJAMIN FRANKLIN was provided by Bank of America. Major funding was provided by David M. Rubenstein. Major funding was also provided by The Pew Charitable Trusts, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and by The Better Angels Society and its members Jeannie and Jonathan Lavine; University of Pennsylvania; Gilchrist and Amy Berg; Perry and Donna Golkin; Kissick Family Foundation; Deborah and Jon Dawson; Diane and Hal Brierley; McCloskey Family Charitable Trust; Cappy and Janie McGarr; Lavender Butterfly Fund; and Susan and Charles Shanor Charitable Trust.

Watch • 1:54:59

Benjamin Franklin

“An American” (1775-1790)

Benjamin Franklin helps craft the Declaration of Independence and wins French support.

Episode: S1 E2 | 1:54:59

Watch • 1:55:26

Benjamin Franklin

“Join or Die” (1706-1774)

After success as a Philadelphia printer Benjamin Franklin earns worldwide fame in science.

Episode: S1 E1 | 1:55:26

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