In 1723 there arrived in Philadelphia a young man with no money, eager for work and knowledge, As the years passed. This man, Benjamin Franklin, contributed greatly to his city and his country. He became a printer and a publisher, and a learned man in many subjects. He also helped to spread learning by setting up a public library and by founding the American Philosophical Social(美国哲学学会),which is an important society of great learned persons to this day.
Franklin started many improvements in the city of Philadelphia , making it one of the world’s first cities to have paved (铺好石子的) and lighted streets as well as a police force and a fire-fighting company. He also made many practical inventions such as the Franklin stove, which worked very well, and the lightning rod (避雷针) to protect buildings in electric storms. His scientific work with electricity made Franklin famous all over the world.
Franklin played an important role in the early history of the United States, He took part in many political movements and did a lot for his country. 1n 1783 he helped his country to end the Revolutionary War. As a member and as president of the Abolitionist Society(废除黑奴协会) , Franklin gave his last years to the movement to end the scociety of having slaves.