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Benjamin Franklin
The Stamp Act
The recent war with France had expanded England’s empire, but left its treasury depleted. In the spring of 1765, the king’s ministers and Parliament came up with a new way to raise more money from the American colonies: The Stamp Act. Now, all legal documents, newspapers, books, almanacs—even decks of playing cards—would need official stamps, purchased from the government.
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1:55:26
After success as a Philadelphia printer Benjamin Franklin earns worldwide fame in science.
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1:54:59
Benjamin Franklin helps craft the Declaration of Independence and wins French support.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:55:26
After success as a Philadelphia printer Benjamin Franklin earns worldwide fame in science.