The Way of Print

Abstract

Chapter 4 discusses how, in addition to printing a newspaper, The Pennsylvania Gazette, Franklin produced books, documents, and records as part of his successful print shop. One of his most celebrated best-sellers was Poor Richard’s Almanac: one part diary for its owners, several parts trivia, and advice from the fictious Poor Richard. The chapter shows how, throughout his publications, Franklin’s understanding and sympathy for aspects of Christianity became apparent. His interest in making a profit was part of his larger effort to improve the morals of fellow colonists. Franklin’s work in an industry that was crucial to the spread of Protestantism reveals another link between his life and the world that the Reformation made.