Ingenious: A Biography of Benjamin Franklin, Scientist - Hardcover

by Richard Munson (Author)

Benjamin Franklin was one of the preeminent scientists of his time. Driven by curiosity, he conducted cutting-edge research on electricity, heat, ocean currents, weather patterns, chemical bonds, and plants. But today, Franklin is remembered more for his political prowess and diplomatic achievements than his scientific creativity.

In this incisive and rich account of Benjamin Franklin's life and career, Richard Munson recovers this vital part of Franklin's story, reveals his modern relevance, and offers a compelling portrait of a shrewd experimenter, clever innovator, and visionary physicist whose fame opened doors to negotiate French support and funding for American independence.

Munson's riveting narrative explores how science underpins Franklin's entire story--from tradesman to inventor to nation-founder--and argues that Franklin's political life cannot be understood without giving proper credit to his scientific accomplishments.

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Praise for Richard Munson

Tesla

"Penetrating . . . Munson makes vivid the genius's eventful life."
-- Nature

"A most interesting and often amusing book. Gives us a detailed and vivid glimpse of the competitive world of electrical innovation at the end of the 19th century."
-- The Spectator

"Munson tells the story engagingly."
-- Times Literary Supplement

"A lucid, expertly researched biography of the brilliant Nikola Tesla. Readers . . . will absolutely enjoy [Richard Munson's] sympathetic, insightful portrait."
-- Kirkus, starred review

"[A] celebratory, comprehensive profile. . . . A well-written, insightful addition to the legacy of this still-unappreciated visionary genius."
-- Booklist