What Happened to Benjamin Franklin's Son: A Look into William Franklin's Life

Hello there, history buffs! Today, we're diving into the fascinating life of William Franklin, the son of one of America's founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin. Now, you might be wondering, "What happened to Benjamin Franklin's son?" Well, buckle up, because we're about to explore a tale of love, loss, and political intrigue. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and what happened to benjamin franklin's son.

Early Life: Growing Up in the Franklin Household

Born on July 22, 1731, in Philadelphia, William was the only son of Benjamin Franklin and his common-law wife, Deborah Read. Growing up in the Franklin household, William was exposed to his father's vast intellect and political acumen. Benjamin, a renowned scientist, inventor, and statesman, ensured that his son received a quality education. William learned Latin, Greek, and French, and was even sent to England for further studies.

William's Political Ascent

William Franklin's political career began early, and he quickly showed promise.

At just 19, William was appointed as the Deputy Governor of New Jersey, a position he held for an impressive 21 years. He was a staunch advocate for the British crown and believed that the colonies should remain under British rule. This stance, however, would eventually lead him down a path of controversy and conflict.

The American Revolution: William vs. Benjamin

The American Revolution was a time of great conflict, not just between the colonies and Britain, but also within the Franklin family.

When the American Revolution broke out, William remained loyal to the British crown, earning him the title of "The Last Royal Governor of New Jersey." Benjamin, on the other hand, was a staunch advocate for American independence. This difference in opinion created a significant rift between father and son.

William's Imprisonment and Benjamin's Plea

In 1776, William was arrested and imprisoned by the Americans for his loyalty to Britain. He spent nearly seven years in prison, first in Connecticut and later in Massachusetts. Meanwhile, Benjamin, despite his political differences with his son, made several attempts to secure William's release. He even wrote a heartfelt letter to the British commander, General Howe, pleading for his son's freedom.

After the Revolution: A Life in Exile

William's loyalty to Britain had severe consequences for his future in America.

After the American Revolution, William was banished from the United States, never to return. He moved to England, where he lived out the rest of his days in relative obscurity. Despite his exile, William never wavered in his loyalty to Britain. He even served as an envoy to the French court, where he successfully negotiated a treaty between Britain and France.

Legacy and Death

William Franklin's life was marked by political controversy and exile, but his legacy lives on.

William Franklin died in London on April 18, 1813, at the age of 81. Despite his controversial political stance, he left behind a legacy of political acumen and diplomatic skill. His story serves as a reminder of the personal costs of political disagreement and the complexities of loyalty during times of conflict.

So, there you have it, folks! That's what happened to Benjamin Franklin's son, William. It's a tale of political intrigue, family conflict, and the personal cost of political beliefs. Until next time, history lovers!