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Benjamin Franklin
Franklin and the Antislavery Movement
Franklin, though a former slave owner, had joined the growing antislavery movement in Philadelphia. With the Pennsylvania Society for Promoting the Abolition of Slavery, he petitioned the new federal government to end slavery in the United States. Because of Franklin’s reputation, the petition was heard. But the House of Representatives voted it down, and the Senate tabled it without discussion.
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1:54:59
Benjamin Franklin helps craft the Declaration of Independence and wins French support.
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1:55:26
After success as a Philadelphia printer Benjamin Franklin earns worldwide fame in science.