A key figure depicted as the embodiment of American values like individualism and community spirit, with significant roles in journalism, statesmanship, and scientific endeavors, all while maintaining a pragmatic and tolerant worldview.

Benjamin Franklin's illegitimate son, who became estranged from his father due to his loyalty to England during the American Revolution, illustrating Franklin's complex family dynamics.

Franklin's cherished grandson, whom he raised and educated, highlighting his capacity for unconditional love and willingness to defy societal norms.

Franklin's grandson who was taken to France on a diplomatic mission, later becoming a partisan printer known for his confrontational style but never fully embodying Franklin's temperament.

Franklin's wife, described as hard-working and independent, whose relationship with him was respectful but distant, especially given his long trips abroad.

A surrogate family to Franklin while in London, providing warmth and companionship, with Polly becoming like a daughter to him despite the lack of inheritance in his will.

A former friend turned printing industry competitor in Philadelphia, who clashed with Franklin over business and political alignments.

Franklin's devoted daughter who sought his approval but often faced his criticism, yet was entrusted with most of his property in his will.

Benjamin Franklin's brother, who took him on as a printing apprentice but became estranged following Franklin's deceit and subsequent departure.

Sally Franklin's husband, initially viewed with skepticism by Franklin, but later treated kindly and involved in Franklin's postal endeavors.

A London printer and close friend of Franklin with whom he had a temporary fallout due to political tensions between America and England, but eventually reconciled.

A key adversary of Franklin as a principal proprietor of Pennsylvania, representing inherited privilege and clashing with Franklin over colonial governance issues.

A vibrant French widow whom Franklin admired during his years in Paris, to the extent of proposing marriage humorously.

Franklin's father, who set his son on the path of printing after recognizing his unsuitability for the ministry.

An American statesman and diplomat who worked alongside Franklin, sharing mutual admiration despite occasional clashes.

An influential writer and thinker whose emigration to America was supported by Franklin, most notably contributing to the independence movement with his pamphlets.

A fellow statesman and diplomat resembling Franklin in temperament, who succeeded him as a representative in France.