The American Crisis · Character

Benjamin Franklin

The elder statesman whose diplomatic genius in France gave the Revolution its indispensable ally, cited by Paine as proof that virtue and genius can serve mankind.

supporting

Also known as Franklin, Dr. Franklin

First appearance: the crisis i

As a supporting figure in The American Crisis, Benjamin Franklin is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Attested to the great effect of Paine's publications.

In the storyEditor’s IntroductionOpen this moment free

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Franklin represents the Revolution's most credible voice abroad, a man whose scientific fame and political cunning opened French coffers and hearts. Paine invokes him as evidence that America's cause attracts the best…

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See Benjamin Franklin in the crisis i

Character Web

10 connections

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Relationship types

Friendship
Other

Character groups

Key Figures and Factions
British and Loyalist Opponents

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of the conflic…

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Relationships

Thomas Paine
friendship · positive
Franklin and Paine were fellow revolutionary thinkers and writers who collaborated in… How this plays out →

Relationship notes

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See Benjamin Franklin in the crisis i

In the story

Benjamin Franklin appears across 4 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

Editor’s Introduction
Attested to the great effect of Paine's publications.
To the People of America
Informed by Colonel Laurens and Paine of Deane's traitorous activities in France.
The Crisis XI: On the Present State of News
American minister in Paris whom the British secretly approached to disunite America from France.
Endnotes
Franklin is mentioned as a friend of Paine in England and as a patron who provided materials for a history of the revolution; he is also noted as a supposed author of 'Common Sense.'

Chapter companion notes

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See Benjamin Franklin in the crisis i

See Benjamin Franklin in Editor’s Introduction