Watch Benjamin Franklin

As one of America's founding fathers and a polymath who excelled in numerous fields, Benjamin Franklin has captured the imaginations of generations of history buffs and scholars. In 2022, PBS presents a new documentary series that delves deep into the life, struggles, and achievements of this iconic figure.

Through interviews with historians, biographers, scholars, and experts, Benjamin Franklin sheds light on the many facets of this complex man's personality and legacy. The six-part series explores Franklin's early life and education, his rise to prominence as a printer, writer, and public figure, his contributions to science, technology, and diplomacy, and his enduring impact on American democracy and culture.

The first episode, "The Young Printer," follows Franklin's journey from his humble beginnings as the 15th child of a Boston soap maker to his apprenticeship in his brother's printing shop and his eventual establishment of his own printing business in Philadelphia. Viewers learn about Franklin's early writings, including his satirical newspaper, The New-England Courant, and his famous Poor Richard's Almanack, which dispensed practical advice and wit to thousands of readers.

Subsequent episodes focus on Franklin's scientific discoveries, including his experiments with electricity and his invention of the lightning rod, bifocal glasses, and Franklin stove. Viewers also get a glimpse into Franklin's role as a diplomat, including his negotiations with the French government during the American Revolution and his involvement in drafting the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights.

Throughout the series, viewers are treated to immersive reenactments of key moments in Franklin's life, such as his famous kite experiment, his participation in the Continental Congress, and his years as ambassador to France. The show also features a wealth of archival materials, such as Franklin's correspondence, newspaper articles, and scientific papers.

But perhaps what sets Benjamin Franklin apart from other documentaries is its emphasis on Franklin as a human being, with all the flaws and contradictions that come with that. While Franklin is often lauded as a paragon of American virtue and ingenuity, the show explores his less admirable traits, such as his complicated relationships with women (including his common-law wife and his illegitimate son) and his role as a slave owner.

By presenting a multifaceted portrait of Benjamin Franklin, the show offers viewers a nuanced understanding of this quintessentially American figure. Whether you're a history buff, a student of science, or simply curious about one of the most fascinating people in American history, Benjamin Franklin is a must-see series for anyone interested in the story of the United States.

Benjamin Franklin is a series that ran for 1 seasons (2 episodes) between April 4, 2022 and on PBS