The Devious Dr. Franklin, Colonial Agent: Benjamin Franklin's Years in LondonThe Devious Dr. Franklin focuses on Benjamin Franklin's fifteen-and-a-half-year career as a colonial agent in London, first for Pennsylvania and then for Pennsylvania, Georgia, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. During his years in London, Franklin became a seasoned lobbyist and gained the experience that enabled him to become America's first diplomat. But as a colonial agent he revealed himself to be a devious man who kept everyone guessing as to his true intentions. All of the acclaimed doctor's character flaws were clearly exhibited by him during the years he served in London as colonial agent. This is the only part of Franklin's career that has not been the focal point of an in-depth examination by historians. In this ground-breaking study, Morgan demonstrates that Benjamin Franklin knew well the value of a good public image and that the Doctor worked diligently to create and promote a favorable image, with both his contemporaries and posterity in mind. |
What people are saying - Write a review
We haven't found any reviews in the usual places.
Other editions - View all
Common terms and phrases
accept agent American appointment approval asked Assembly August became become believed Benjamin Franklin bill Board Boston Britain British called caused claimed colonies Company continued convinced Crown Cushing Deborah December Doctor duties efforts England expressed favor February finally Franklin Papers friends George Georgia give governor grant Hillsborough hope Ibid Indians instructions interest issue January Jersey John Joseph Galloway July June king land later laws least letters London Lord lower March Massachusetts matter ministry months never November October officials Parliament passed Pennsylvania Pennsylvania agent petition Philadelphia political present Press Privy Council promote proprietors Quaker received regard remained repeal Richard Jackson royal government scheme secretary secure seemed sending sent September soon Stamp Act Strahan Street Thomas Penn thought told took Trade turned views wanted William Franklin wrote young