The Americanization Of Benjamin Franklin Summary

"The Americanization of Benjamin Franklin", written by Gordon S. Wood, is a selective study of aspects of the Founding Father's life. In his book, Wood's purpose is to portray the lesser known details of Benjamin Franklin's life and his transformation from a Loyalist of the Royal Crown, to a patriot who would unknowingly become one of the most massively symbolic and significant figures in American history. Wood reveals that before he was a passionate American revolutionist, Franklin passionately believed in the British Empire and tirelessly attempted to appease both American and British interests. Wood uses effective historical evidence, not commonly known today, to depict all faces of Benjamin Franklin. It is through precise investigation of the book's strengths and weaknesses that the reader will determine the
He shows the audience that Franklin was infinitely loyal to the British Empire and had huge ambitions to be an important player in the British political-power structure. Wood explains that up until the time shortly before the American Revolution, Franklin lived in England, and nurtured the belief that British leaders were not tyrannical. This was a highly uncommon opinion in the American colonies throughout this time period. Wood reveals that it was through the Stamp Act, and the egotistical behaviors that Britain presented towards the American colonies, Franklin's views on British loyalty were changed.

Wood presents important supporting evidence that Franklin is more complex than his stereotype. In his book, Wood follows two broad courses, from Franklin’s difficult progress from an English supporter, to becoming a more committed American. In chapter one, "Becoming a Gentlemen," Wood lists events chronologically that were a result of Franklin's