Benjamin Franklin and the Goals of the Empire

Carla J. Malford explores in detail how Benjamin Franklin's (1706–1790) views on economy, society, politics, and the environment were formed in her book.

Influenced by the ideas of early liberalism, this prominent figure of the American Revolution advocated for freedom of speech and conscience, the right to move, participate in elections, and create their own laws—including rules on taxation and trade.

These views were in stark contradiction to the ideas of colonialism that were asserted in North America, India, and Ireland. 

The author shows how Franklin's ideas became part of the intellectual foundation upon which the American colonies' desire for independence was built.