Was Benjamin Franklin a Member of the Sons of Liberty?

Benjamin Franklin, often referred to as the 'Father of Liberty,' played an essential role in the founding of the United States. He signed the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Paris, and the US Constitution, and was instrumental in promoting American independence. However, was Franklin a member of the Sons of Liberty, a prominent group in the early days of the American Revolution?

Historical Context of the Sons of Liberty

The Sons of Liberty, established in the 1760s, were a loose network of colonial American resistance groups formed to protect the rights of the colonists against the policies of the British Crown. The group gained notoriety for their role in organizing protests and direct actions, including the destruction of British property.

Benjamin Franklin: A Different Skirmish

It is important to distinguish between Benjamin Franklin and the Sons of Liberty. While the group was predominantly based in New England, particularly in Boston, the Founding Father was more closely associated with Philadelphia. Franklin was already in England serving as a colonial agent when the Sons of Liberty were forming in Boston. He returned to America in 1775 to support the revolutionary cause and helped to establish a Continental Congress.

The Role of Franklin During the Pre-Revolutionary Period

Franklin believed that fighting a war with England was not in the best interest of either side. He attempted to negotiate with the British crown and advocated for equal rights for the colonists. When it became apparent that the Crown was not willing to grant equal rights, Franklin became one of the fiercest supporters of American independence. However, he was not an early participant in the revolutionary movement like the Sons of Liberty.

Franklin’s Position and Memberships

Documentation of Franklin’s involvement with the Sons of Liberty is sparse. The group consisted of several prominent figures, including Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, Benedict Arnold, James Otis, Richard Henry Lee, and Dr. Benjamin Rush. Franklin was an envoy in London at the time, performing diplomatic duties, and was not listed among the members. While it is possible that Franklin might have been a secret member, given his strong support for the revolution, it seems unlikely.

Benjamin Franklin: A Philadelphian

Franklin hailed from Boston but moved to Philadelphia to escape the city's troubles as a teenager. He made Philadelphia his home for most of his life, with exceptions for diplomatic missions in Europe. His commitment to American independence was driven by a diverse set of experiences, including his service as a diplomat and his advocacy for colonial rights.

Conclusion

While Benjamin Franklin did not join the Sons of Liberty, his lifelong dedication to the cause of American independence is unquestionable. His contributions during the American Revolution, including his role as a diplomat and signer of crucial legal documents, solidified his status as one of the most important figures in United States history. Franklin’s journey from a pacifist envoy to a leading revolutionary exemplifies the complex and nuanced process of the American Revolution.