“Franklin’s mission to Paris is one of the most extraordinary episodes in the history of American diplomacy, important, if not indeed decisive, to the outcome of the Revolution.  The eminent scientist, journalist, politician, and homespun philosopher was already an international celebrity when he landed in France.  Establishing himself in a comfortable house with a well-stocked wine cellar in a suburb Paris, he made himself the toast of the city. A steady flow of visitors requested audiences and favors such as commissions in the American army.  Through clever packaging, he presented himself to French society as the very embodiment of America’s revolution, a model of republican simplicity and virtue.” –George Herring, From Colony to Superpower, p. 19

Discussion Questions

  • Compare Franklin’s diplomatic method with John Adams’ approach.  What are the trade-offs with each style?
  • Why was the securing an alliance with France so vital to the success of the American Revolution?  And yet how was it also a dangerous gambit?
Franklin

Engraving by Augustin de Saint-Aubin (National Portrait Gallery / London)

Historians on Franklin’s “salon” diplomacy

Franklin’s headquarters in Paris

BF residence

Franklin lived here, at what was known as the Hotel de Valentinois, in part of the Chaumont residence in Passy from 1777-1785.   Today the address is 66 Rue Raynouard, Paris (Photograph courtesy of Graham Frater)

Additional Resources