What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedBenjamin Franklin
Series · 2022
If you loved Benjamin Franklin, start with 1776 (Peter H. Hunt, 1972) — a film on the same thread. Below: 4 books, 4 films and 1 podcast, each matched to Benjamin Franklin across media.
If Benjamin Franklin captivated you, you will appreciate these portraits of historical figures who shaped the destiny of nations through intellect and action.
Books on the same thread
The American Revolution
Geoffrey C. Ward and Ken Burns · Book
Explores: nation building, revolutionary warfare, constitutional origins.
Like the documentary on Benjamin Franklin, this companion piece offers a deep dive into the revolutionary era, providing essential historical context for the birth of the American government.
Einstein
Walter Isaacson · Book · 2017
Shares a thread with Benjamin Franklin: Scientific Discovery.
Walter Isaacson brings the same biographical rigor to this study of Einstein that he applied to Benjamin Franklin, highlighting the intersection of genius and scientific discovery.
Washington
Ron Chernow · Book · 2010
Explores: Political leadership, Statecraft and diplomacy, Revolutionary war legacy.
Much like the life of Benjamin Franklin, this biography explores the immense personal sacrifice and complex statecraft required to build a nation from the ground up.
Founding Brothers
Joseph J. Ellis · Book · 2000
Shares a thread with Benjamin Franklin: Founding Fathers.
This study captures the same ideological conflicts and political rivalries that defined the world of Benjamin Franklin, grounding these legendary figures in their messy, human reality.
Films on the same thread
National Treasure
Jon Turteltaub · Film · 2004
Shares a thread with Benjamin Franklin: American History.
While Benjamin Franklin is a historical study, this film leans into the mythos surrounding the Founding Fathers, blending their actual legacies with a modern, high-stakes treasure hunt.
Lincoln
Steven Spielberg · Film · 2012
Explores: American Civil War, Presidential Leadership, Abolitionism.
You will recognize the weight of history found in Benjamin Franklin within this intimate look at Lincoln, focusing on the heavy moral courage required of a leader.
1776
Peter H. Hunt · Film · 1972
Shares a thread with Benjamin Franklin: Founding Fathers.
This musical dramatization brings the same political deliberation and revolutionary fervor seen in Benjamin Franklin to life, showing the intense bureaucratic tension of the Continental Congress.
Oppenheimer
Film · 2023
Explores: Moral ambiguity, Scientific ethics, Cold War paranoia.
Similar to how Benjamin Franklin explored scientific innovation, this film examines the profound moral ambiguity and ethical dilemmas faced by a scientist changing the course of history.
Podcasts on the same thread
The People Profiles
The People Profiles · Podcast
Shares 2 threads with Benjamin Franklin: Biographical Documentary, Historical Documentary.
If the detailed biographical approach of Benjamin Franklin appealed to you, these long-form profiles provide the same rigorous exploration of the individuals who define human history.
Keep exploring
Common questions
Is Benjamin Franklin a documentary about his scientific discoveries?
Benjamin Franklin explores the life of one of the 18th century’s most consequential personalities. The series covers his work and words that helped unlock the mystery of electricity alongside his pivotal role in creating the United States.
What time period does Benjamin Franklin cover?
Benjamin Franklin focuses on the 18th century. The series examines the revolutionary life of its subject, detailing his contributions to scientific understanding and his foundational work in the creation of the United States.
Does Benjamin Franklin explain his role in the American Revolution?
Yes, Benjamin Franklin explores how he helped create the United States. The series provides an overview of his life, highlighting both his political contributions and his scientific work during the 18th century.
What is the primary focus of the series Benjamin Franklin?
Benjamin Franklin is a 2022 television series that explores the life of a compelling 18th-century personality. It focuses on his scientific achievements, specifically his work with electricity, and his essential contributions to the founding of the United States.