The Founding Fathers are some of the most important figures in history—without them, there would be no United States of America! However, the mists of time have obscured some interesting trivia about these famous faces. Here are 19 things most people don’t know about the Founding Fathers.
Who’s Who?
You’re probably familiar with big names like George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, but there’s a furious historical debate about just who counts as an official Founding Father. Brittanica settles for a list of ten names, but it’s clear that the legend of America’s birth is subject to constant reinvention and reinterpretation.
Washington May Have Caused a World War
George Washington is remembered as a hero, but did he also start a world war? As a young man, Washington raided a French outpost in North America, worsening tensions between the British and French. This led to the outbreak of the Seven Years’ War, the planet’s first truly global conflict.
Franklin was the First American Ambassador to France
Benjamin Franklin is famous for being the first American ambassador to France, where he secured vital support for the Revolution. Franklin was an accomplished socialite. His job in Paris was to make friends—he gained a reputation for flirting with French women, but sacrifices had to be made for the good of his country!
Revere was a Dentist
Paul Revere is often referred to as a war hero, but he also dabbled in dentistry. Revere could identify a corpse by inspecting its teeth. As such, he’s sometimes referred to not only as one of the Founding Fathers of America but also as the father of forensic dentistry.
Washington Made Many Tactical Blunders
George Washington might have a reputation as a tactical genius, but he was far from flawless when it came to battle. Of the thirteen battles in which he fought, nine were losses. However, he did win when it really counted—his victories at Trenton and Yorktown helped earn him a place in American history.
Adams Was a Romantic Revolutionary
John Adams may be one of the lesser-known Founding Fathers, but he deserves to be remembered as the most romantic of the revolutionaries. NPR reports that Adams exchanged over a thousand letters with his wife, Abigail. The couple faced difficulties, but it’s a testament to their love that it’s still talked about today.
Washington Had An Eye for the Ladies
Not every Founding Father had eyes only for their significant other, and rumors have long swirled about George Washington’s alleged unfaithfulness. However, Washington’s first romance was single-minded—if misguided! This American icon fell for the beautiful wife of his best friend, but it seems that his love was unrequited.
Like Father, Like Son? Not in the Case of the Franklins
Fathers and sons don’t always get along, as the case of Benjamin and William Franklin illustrates. William, Franklin’s illegitimate son, sided with the British during the American Revolution. This put an intense strain on the pair’s relationship, and Franklin more or less disowned his troublesome offspring.
Some Loved a Party
George Washington is recorded as being a lover of dancing (and of the young women these events attracted), while Benjamin Franklin’s Parisian soirees were diplomacy disguised as parties. Revolting against the British Empire had to have been exhausting, so we’re glad that the Founding Fathers found time to let their wigs down!
Franklin Turned to Abolitionism in Old Age
While many people view the Founding Fathers as freedom fighters, their attitudes towards slavery complicate their collective legacy. Benjamin Franklin did own slaves, but he grew opposed to the practice in his old age. After all, how could America be the land of the free if it denied those freedoms to African Americans?
Washington Was Also a Farmer
George Washington: warrior, flirt—and farmer? Washington’s colorful reputation distracts from his more mundane (but nonetheless useful) contributions to American agriculture. Washington used experimental farming methods to maximize his harvests, such as using different seeds and equipment. Ironically, many of his ideas were adapted from British landowners!
Franklin Was an Excellent Swimmer
Benjamin Franklin excelled at politics and diplomacy, but did you know that he was also an amazing swimmer? Franklin’s friend was so impressed at how he swam in the Thames that he begged him to open a swimming school. History might have turned out very differently had Franklin accepted the offer.
There Were Also Founding Mothers
Many men played a central role in securing their country’s independence, but women were also important during the American Revolution. The National Women’s History Museum highlights some of these forgotten figures, including Deborah Sampson (who fought dressed as a man) and the political organizer Penelope Barker.
Washington Became an Emancipator When He Died
George Washington had a fraught relationship with the concept of slavery. This Founding Father owned many slaves throughout his life, and although he started to support emancipation, none were freed during his lifetime. His will ordered the release of his enslaved workers—however, they were still instructed to remain in his wife’s service.
Many Didn’t Have Much Formal Education
Many of the Founding Fathers lacked much in the way of a formal education. Benjamin Franklin had two years of schooling before switching to work, while George Washington stopped school at the age of 11. Never let anyone tell you that you need to stay in school to make history!
Revere – a Politician and Secret Agent
The War for Independence was won thanks to the brilliant espionage of the Revolutionaries. Paul Revere, one of the more underrated Founding Fathers, was a vital cog in the American intelligence machine. If not for his hard work and courage, it’s possible that America would never have escaped from British rule.
Samuel Adams Wins the Popularity Contest
Who is the most popular Founding Father? If we’re measuring by who’s grave gets seen the most, the answer is surprising: Samuel Adams. Adams’ grave is located in a convenient spot in Boston’s Granary Burial Ground, according to the National Park Service. Even if you don’t intend to visit, you’re likely to walk past while exploring the city.
Hamilton Played Both Sides
Alexander Hamilton is best known today for inspiring a popular Broadway musical. However, this all-singing, all-dancing Founding Father was also a smooth political operator. He helped Thomas Jefferson become president, even though they were in different parties—all to stop his rival, Burr, from getting the job!
Washington was Hard to Get Rid Of
Much like Russia’s mad monk, George Washington was a hard man to kill. He survived an incredible number of near misses—neither bullets, countless diseases, nor nearly drowning in an icy river could finish Washington off. Though he eventually died of a throat infection, it’s safe to say that his legacy lives on.
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