“A plowman on his legs is higher than a gentleman on his knees.”
Benjamin Franklin
Poor Richard’s Almanack (Primary source)
Poor Richard’s Almanack stands as perhaps the most influential periodical in colonial America, embodying Benjamin Franklin’s genius for marrying practical wisdom with commercial success. Published annually from 1732 to 1758, the almanac reached into virtually every American household, selling some 10,000 copies yearly, an extraordinary circulation for its time.
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“Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“For age and want save while you may; no morning sun lasts a whole day.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“Beware of little expenses, a small leak will sink a great ship.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time; for that’s the stuff life is made of.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary sourceMore quotes by Benjamin Franklin →
“Approve not of him that commends all you say.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“I will not be triumphed over.”
— Cleopatra Disputed“You may be too cunning for one, but not for all.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“An innocent plowman is more worthy than a vicious prince.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary sourcePlowman Gentleman Pride Self-reliance