Benjamin Franklin

Creator of the First Ever “Viral” Political Cartoon

Benjamin Franklin was born on January 17, 1706, in Boston, Massachusetts. His father, Josiah, wanted Franklin to be a clergyman—but they couldn’t afford the required education for such work. So, acknowledging his son’s love of reading, Josiah sent his son to apprentice, as a printer, with Josiah’s brother, James.

Franklin’s responsibilities—as a twelve-year-old—included composing pamphlets, typesetting, and selling his uncle’s wares on the streets. It was described as “grueling” work.

Three years later, Franklin’s uncle founded The New England Courant—considered by some to be the first newspaper in Boston. That honor, however, goes to The Boston News-Letter. The small, single-sheet, two-sided paper was published 17 years before The Courant. According to the Massachusetts Historical Society, The Boston News-Letter is the first continuously published newspaper in America.

For two years, Franklin worked at The Courant. While there, he was physically abused by his uncle. So, in 1723, Franklin left. After failing to find employment in New York City, he walked, walked through New Jersey to a ferry. On October 6, 1723, he arrived in Philadelphia.

Six years later, Franklin bought The Pennsylvania Gazette. It quickly became the voice for colonists who opposed British rule. On May 9, 1754, Franklin—who was writing (sometimes anonymously) for his own paper—created (sort of) and published Join or Die—the first ever “viral” political cartoon.