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Franklin’s stroke of brilliance lay in presenting his counsel through the voice of “Father Abraham,” who strings together the almanac’s accumulated proverbs into a coherent philosophy of self-improvement. The familiar refrains, such as “Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise”, became the secular scripture of American capitalism. Yet Franklin’s message transcended money-making; he advocated industry, frugality, and prudence as civic virtues essential to republican government.
The essay’s extraordinary influence stemmed from its perfect alignment with American circumstances. In a society lacking inherited privilege, Franklin offered a democratic path to prosperity through character and effort, rather than a path assuming inherited privilege or wealth. His aphorisms became the intellectual foundation for what would later be called the Protestant work ethic, shaping generations of Americans who saw moral virtue and material success as inseparable companions in the pursuit of happiness.
“Little strokes fell great oaks.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“Silk and satins and scarlets and velvets put out the kitchen fire.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“We are taxed twice as much by our idleness, three times as much by our pride, and four times as much by our folly.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“If you want to be wealthy, think of saving as well as of earning.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“Those who will not be counselled, cannot be helped.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“The cat in gloves catches no mice.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“If you want a faithful servant, and one that you like—serve yourself.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source• Title: The Way to Wealth
• Author: Benjamin Franklin
• Type: Book
• Publisher: Benjamin Franklin
• Publication time: 1758
• Publication place: Pennsylvania, United States
• Link: https://www.gutenberg.org/files/43855/43855-h/43855-h.htm
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