Benjamin Franklin and His Enemies

by Robert Middlekauff

In this engaging study of the much-loved statesman and polymath, Robert Middlekauff uncovers a little-known aspect of Benjamin Franklin's personality―his passionate anger. He reveals a fully human Franklin who led a remarkable life but nonetheless had his share of hostile relationships―political adversaries like the Penns, John Adams, and Arthur Lee―and great disappointments―the most significant being his son, William, who sided with the British. Utilizing an abundance of archival sources, Middlekauff weaves episodes in Franklin's emotional life into key moments in colonial and Revolutionary history. The result is a highly readable narrative that illuminates how historical passions can torment even the most rational and benevolent of men.

Genres: History, Biography

274 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

About the author

A specialist in colonial and early United States history, Robert L. Middlekauff was professor emeritus of at the University of California, Berkeley.