Did Benjamin Franklin sign the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, both, or neither?

Benjamin Franklin, a prominent figure among America's Founding Fathers, holds the distinction of having signed both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. This remarkable achievement places him among a very small group of individuals who endorsed these two foundational documents of the United States. His involvement in the creation of these pivotal texts spanned over a decade, showcasing his unwavering dedication to the birth and establishment of the new nation.

In 1776, at the age of 70, Franklin was a delegate to the Second Continental Congress and was appointed to the "Committee of Five" tasked with drafting the Declaration of Independence. While Thomas Jefferson is recognized as the primary author, Franklin played a role in editing the document, famously suggesting a change to Jefferson's wording from "We hold these truths to be sacred and undeniable" to "We hold these truths to be self-evident," which subtly shifted the philosophical basis from divine right to natural law. His signature on this declaration was a bold act of defiance against British rule, marking a commitment to American independence.

Eleven years later, in 1787, an 81-year-old Franklin returned to Philadelphia as a delegate to the Constitutional Convention. Despite his advanced age and declining health, his presence was invaluable. He was known for his wisdom and his ability to foster compromise among often-disagreeing delegates, helping to bridge divides and ensure the convention's success. His contributions included advocating for proportional representation in one legislative house and equal representation in another, a concept that became part of the Great Compromise. At the close of the Convention, when asked what kind of government they had created, Franklin famously replied, "A republic, madam, if you can keep it".

Franklin's signatures on both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution underscore his profound and continuous influence on the formation of the United States. His journey from a printer and inventor to a statesman and diplomat, culminating in his role in shaping these essential documents, solidified his legacy as a central figure in American history, embodying the spirit of ingenuity and commitment to liberty.