Jonah Patel
On September 17, 1787, 81-year-old Founding Father Benjamin Franklin, in his farewell speech at the Constitutional Convention, expressed his doubts about the ability of any other Convention to create a better Constitution. Despite having several parts of the Constitution that he did not approve of, he agreed to it, believing that a general government was necessary for the country and that the Constitution was likely to be well-administered for a course of years. Franklin's signature on the Constitution, which he considered a recommendation, was a pivotal moment in American history and demonstrated his hope for the country's future.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Age when signing the Constitution | 81 years |
| Date of signing the Constitution | 17th September 1787 |
| His thoughts on the Constitution | "I agree to this Constitution with all its faults, if they are such; because I think a general government necessary for us...Thus, I consent, sir, to this constitution, because I expect no better, and because I am not sure, that it is not the best." |
| His thoughts on the possibility of a better Constitution | "I doubt too whether any other Convention we can obtain, may be able to make a better Constitution." |
| His thoughts on the delegates | "I confess that there are several parts of this constitution which I do not at present approve, but I am not sure I shall never approve them: For having lived long, I have experienced many instances of being obliged by better information, or fuller consideration, to change opinions even on important subjects, which I once thought right, but found to be otherwise." |
| His thoughts on the government | "There is no form of Government but what may be a blessing to the people if well administered, and believe farther that this is likely to be well administered for a course of years, and can only end in Despotism, as other forms have done before it, when the people shall become so corrupted as to need despotic Government, being incapable of any other." |
| His thoughts on the future of the country | "Our new Constitution is now established, everything seems to promise it will be durable; but, in this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes." |
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What You'll Learn
Franklin's doubts about the Constitution
At 81 years old, Benjamin Franklin was the oldest delegate at the Constitutional Convention in 1787. Despite his age and poor health, he was kept busy receiving dignitaries and wrapping up his eight-year diplomatic mission in France. Franklin was pleased with the work of the delegates and proudly signed the new Constitution on September 17, 1787, delivering a speech to close the convention.
However, Franklin did express doubts about the Constitution. In his farewell speech, he noted that there were several parts of the Constitution that he did not approve of, but he was open to changing his mind:
> "I confess that there are several parts of this constitution which I do not at present approve, but I am not sure I shall never approve them: For having lived long, I have experienced many instances of being obliged by better information, or fuller consideration, to change opinions even on important subjects, which I once thought right, but found to be otherwise. It is therefore that the older I grow, the more apt I am to doubt my own judgment, and to pay more respect to the judgment of others."
Franklin also doubted whether another convention could create a better Constitution, acknowledging the diversity of opinions and the challenge of finding common ground:
> "I doubt too whether any other Convention we can obtain, may be able to make a better Constitution. For when you assemble a number of men to have the advantage of their joint wisdom, you inevitably assemble with those men, all their prejudices, their passions, their errors of opinion, their local interests, and their selfish views. From such an assembly can a perfect production be expected? It therefore astonishes me, Sir, to find this system approaching so near to perfection as it does."
Franklin's doubts extended to the potential outcome of the Constitution. While he hoped for a well-administered government, he also recognised the possibility of it ending in despotism if the people became corrupted:
> "I agree to this constitution with all its faults, if they are such; because I think a general Government necessary for us, and there is no form of Government but what may be a blessing to the people if well administered, and believe farther that this is likely to be well administered for a course of years, and can only end in Despotism, as other forms have done before it, when the people shall become so corrupted as to need despotic Government, being incapable of any other."
Despite his doubts, Franklin ultimately signed the Constitution, recognising the need for a general government and the potential for it to be well-administered. He also hoped that his signature would contribute to the perception of unanimity and help secure the "salutary effects and great advantages" of the Constitution.
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His respect for the judgment of others
Benjamin Franklin, an 81-year-old man in poor health, played a crucial role in shaping the United States Constitution. Despite his need for rest, he actively participated in the Constitutional Convention, offering his wisdom and experience to the delegates. In his farewell speech at the convention, Franklin acknowledged the imperfections of the Constitution but expressed his respect for the judgment of others and his willingness to change his opinions based on better information or fuller consideration.
Franklin's respect for the judgment of others is evident in his recognition that no single person possesses absolute truth. He understood that different individuals bring their prejudices, passions, errors in opinion, local interests, and selfish views to the table. Despite these differences, he valued the diversity of opinions and was open to changing his own viewpoints, acknowledging that "the older I grow, the more apt I am to doubt my own judgment, and to pay more respect to the judgment of others." This humility and openness to alternative perspectives were integral to Franklin's character and influenced his support for the Constitution.
Franklin's respect for others' judgments extended beyond the Convention. He recognized the need for a general government and believed that any form of government could be a blessing to the people if well administered. Franklin's faith in the potential goodness of government is a testament to his respect for the collective wisdom of those involved in shaping the nation's future. He understood that the effectiveness of a government depends on the opinion of the people regarding its goodness, as well as the wisdom and integrity of its leaders. This respect for the judgment of others led him to support the Constitution, trusting that it would be well-administered for a course of years.
Moreover, Franklin's respect for the judgment of the delegates and his belief in the potential goodness of government were also shaped by his experience as a diplomat. Having served an eight-year diplomatic mission in France, he returned to America in 1785, revered as one of the nation's greatest patriots. Franklin's diplomatic experience likely exposed him to diverse perspectives and the importance of finding common ground, further shaping his willingness to respect and consider the judgments of others.
In conclusion, Benjamin Franklin's respect for the judgment of others played a significant role in his support for the Constitution. His humility, openness to changing his opinions, and faith in the potential goodness of government demonstrated his trust in the collective wisdom of those involved in shaping the nation's future. Franklin's influence extended beyond the Constitution's signing, as he encouraged others to set aside personal objections and unite for the betterment of the nation. His respect for the judgment of others continues to leave a lasting impact on the foundations of American democracy.
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The Constitution's near-perfection
The United States Constitution was signed on September 17, 1787, by 38 men who signed 39 names. Despite his poor health, Benjamin Franklin, aged 81, was one of the signatories. In his farewell speech, Franklin expressed his doubts about the Constitution, stating that there were several parts that he did not approve of at present. However, he acknowledged that his opinions could change with better information or fuller consideration, and he respected the judgment of others. Franklin ultimately agreed to the Constitution, signing it with the belief that it approached near perfection.
In his speech, Franklin acknowledged the challenges of assembling a group of men with diverse opinions and prejudices and questioned whether a perfect production could be expected. Yet, he was astonished to find that the Constitution came so close to perfection. He recognized the need for a general government and believed that the Constitution could be a blessing if well-administered. Franklin hoped for a well-deserved rest after eight years of diplomatic service, but he remained actively involved in receiving dignitaries and wrapping up loose ends.
Franklin's signature on the Constitution was significant, and he played a crucial role in shaping the nation's future. He was revered as one of the nation's greatest patriots, and his wisdom and experience offered valuable contributions to the Convention. Despite his initial doubts, Franklin proudly signed the Constitution, acknowledging its potential for unity and stability.
Franklin's famous quote, "Our new Constitution is now established, and everything seems to promise it will be durable; but, in this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes," highlights his understanding of the Constitution's durability and the inevitability of change. Franklin's words continue to resonate, and his influence on the Constitution and American history remains significant.
In conclusion, Benjamin Franklin's thoughts on the Constitution reflect his pragmatic approach and belief in the potential for a well-administered government. While he had initial reservations, he ultimately recognized the Constitution's near-perfection and the importance of unanimity. Franklin's signature on the document and his final great quote about the Constitution's durability leave a lasting legacy that continues to shape the nation's principles and governance.
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The importance of a general government
Benjamin Franklin, one of the United States' Founding Fathers, played a crucial role in shaping the nation. Despite his advanced age of 81 and poor health, he actively participated in the Constitutional Convention of 1787, offering his wisdom and experience. Franklin's views on the importance of a general government are reflected in his statements and actions during this period.
Franklin recognised the necessity of a general government for the young nation. In his farewell speech at the Constitutional Convention, he expressed his support for the Constitution, stating, "I agree to this Constitution with all its faults, if they are such; because I think a general Government necessary for us." Franklin's pragmatism is evident in his acknowledgment of the Constitution's imperfections, yet he chose to focus on the potential for good governance. He understood that a general government, if well administered, could be a blessing to the people.
The importance Franklin placed on a general government was rooted in his belief in the potential for good governance. He recognised that the success of any government depended on the wisdom and integrity of its leaders. In his words, "Much of the strength & efficiency of any Government in procuring and securing happiness to the people, depends, on opinion, on the general opinion of the goodness of the Government, as well as well as of the wisdom and integrity of its Governors." Franklin hoped that the new government would be well-administered, ensuring the happiness and prosperity of the people.
Franklin's support for the Constitution was also influenced by his doubt that another convention could produce a better outcome. He recognised the challenges of assembling a group of men with diverse opinions and interests and achieving perfection. In his speech, he noted, "I doubt too whether any other Convention we can obtain, may be able to make a better Constitution." Franklin's pragmatism led him to accept the Constitution, knowing that it might be the best option available.
Additionally, Franklin emphasised the importance of unanimity in supporting the Constitution. He encouraged those with objections to set aside their infallibility and work towards unanimity in recommending the Constitution. Franklin understood that a unified front would strengthen the new government and benefit both the present and future generations. His wisdom and experience guided the delegates towards a consensus, recognising that a general government was necessary for the nation's stability and progress.
In conclusion, Benjamin Franklin's thoughts on the importance of a general government were shaped by his pragmatism, belief in good governance, and desire for unanimity. He recognised the need for a central governing body to guide the young nation and ensure its stability and prosperity. Franklin's support for the Constitution, despite its imperfections, reflected his hope for a well-administered government that could secure the happiness of the people. His influence on the Constitutional Convention and his faith in the potential for good governance continue to resonate in the foundations of American democracy.
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Franklin's views on the government's administration
Benjamin Franklin, a Founding Father of the United States, was a key figure in shaping the country's constitution and a staunch supporter of freedom of the press and independence. He was also a proponent of freeing American slaves and religious freedom. In his later years, Franklin was recalled to America by Congress in 1785, arriving in Philadelphia as one of the nation's greatest patriots. Despite his advanced age and poor health, he played an active role in the Constitutional Convention of 1787, offering his wisdom and experience to the delegates.
Franklin's views on government administration were influenced by his belief in the importance of mutual benefit and the need for active citizen participation in a free republic. He argued that a government should be structured like a building, with a strong foundation and a superstructure that is not too heavy or burdensome. In his "constructionist" interpretation of "Good Government", he warned that too many public servants and heavy taxes could weaken the foundation and lead to its collapse. Franklin trusted in the people's ability to choose legislators wisely and ensure a stable political superstructure.
Franklin's support for the American cause and his belief in freedom of expression as a cornerstone of democracy set him apart from his son, who had been the governor of New Jersey. Franklin's own experiences, including his work in France and his role in negotiating the Treaty of Paris in 1783, shaped his perspective on governance. He recognised the importance of a general government but acknowledged the potential for it to end in despotism if the people became corrupted.
Franklin's views on government administration were also shaped by his understanding of self-interest. He accepted that self-interest would govern men's choices about serving the republic. However, he believed that every useful and good undertaking must serve someone's interest to be considered truly beneficial. Franklin's ideas on mutual benefit extended beyond political theory, as he refused to patent his inventions, preferring to share them for the collective good.
In conclusion, Benjamin Franklin's views on government administration were characterised by his faith in the people's wisdom, his emphasis on a balanced and efficient government structure, and his recognition of the role of self-interest in political affairs. He actively contributed to the formation of the U.S. Constitution, leaving a lasting impact on the country's governance.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, despite his initial doubts, Ben Franklin approved of the Constitution. In his farewell speech at the convention, he said, "I agree to this Constitution with all its faults, if they are such; because I think a general government necessary for us...Thus, I consent, sir, to this Constitution, because I expect no better, and because I am not sure, that it is not the best."
Ben Franklin was 81 years old and in poor health when he was named as one of Pennsylvania's delegates to the Constitutional Convention in 1787. Despite his age, he offered sage advice and wisdom to the younger delegates, and his signature would be his "recommendation" that the final product was "the most eligible".
On September 17, 1787, Ben Franklin wrote what was probably his last great quote, a saying about the Constitution and life: "Our new Constitution is now established, everything seems to promise it will be durable; but, in this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes."
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