Benjamin Franklin, a prominent Founding Father, appears on the hundred-dollar bill not because he was president, but because of his immense contributions to the formation and development of the United States. In fact, there is no rule stating that only presidents can be featured on U.S. currency. Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury, is another non-president featured on U.S. currency, appearing on the ten-dollar bill.
Franklin's influence stretched across many fields:
* Statesman and Diplomat He played a crucial role in securing French support during the American Revolution and was the only Founding Father to sign the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Paris (which ended the war), and the U.S. Constitution. He also served as the 6th President of Pennsylvania.
* Financial Thinker Franklin was an early advocate for a stable monetary system in colonial America, even helping to print paper currency with anti-counterfeiting features. He promoted values like thrift and warned against careless spending and debt.
* Inventor and Scientist His scientific studies, particularly in electricity, made him a major figure in the American Enlightenment. His inventions include the lightning rod, bifocals, and the Franklin stove.
* Writer and Publisher Franklin was a successful printer and publisher, known for the "Pennsylvania Gazette" and "Poor Richard's Almanack," which offered practical advice and wise sayings.
* Civic Leader He founded numerous civic organizations, including the Library Company, the University of Pennsylvania, and Philadelphia's first fire department and hospital.
The decision to feature Franklin on the $100 bill was made by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, influenced by his significant historical impact and the desire to represent a diverse group of notable figures on U.S. currency.