Ben Franklin was born on January 17 in 1706. He was a fascinating, and quirky, man with a myriad of interests. In his 84 years, he:

Invented the lightening rod, bifocals, and the Franklin stove
Formed the first lending library and fire department in America
Wrote and published Poor Richard’s Almanack and the Pennsylvania Gazette
Served in the Second Continental Congress
Signed the Declaration of Independence
Served as the first Postmaster General
Served as US Ambassador to France
(public domain photo)