It can be argued that America has always revered the individual who has devoted their life for the betterment of the country. Benjamin Franklin is one of these individuals. From his mid-teens until the time of his death Franklin received much acclaim for his contributions towards the American Revolution and the federal government. Franklin's explorations of fields including literature, diplomacy, politics and science helped create a new nation. Franklin was ahead of his time in many aspects. His insight and understanding lead to his becoming a renowned individual for his time and one of the country's greatest statesmen. .
Motivation is a "key" to success. Since Franklin was one of the youngest in his family (15th of 17) he felt as though he had to prove himself. At the ripe age of thirteen he was apprenticed to his brother James. Franklin learned the printing trade, devoting his spare time to the advancement of his education. Franklin held the mentality of always wanting to be one-step ahead. He took nothing for granted. "In 1721 his brother James Franklin established the New England Courant, and Benjamin, at the age of 15, was busily occupied in delivering the newspaper and writing articles for it at night."(Morgan). Although Franklin was not known for his articles they soon received much praise for their opinionated observations about the country. Interestingly, Franklin refused to give himself credit for his work and he published them anonymously. This was not because Franklin was humble but because he was afraid what opinions his selections may generate. "Franklin's secretiveness was shorted-lived as he soon developed himself into one of the most recognized and distinguished figures in the literary and publishing world." Two years after acquiring the Pennsylvania Gazette (September 1729) Franklin founded in 1731 what is believed to be the first library in America. It would later be called the Philadelphia Library.