**Ben Franklin: The Greatest American? A New Perspective on a Founding Father**

In a world filled with superheroes and significant cultural icons, the true “greatest American” might just be a name many overlook: Benjamin Franklin. Dr. Mark Scousin, a noted economist and author, has recently penned a book that reignites the conversation about Franklin’s extraordinary impact on American society. In his book titled “The Greatest American,” Scousin positions Franklin among the greatest figures in American history, suggesting he even deserves a place in the top five. As Franklin himself might say, “A penny saved is a penny earned,” but what about the treasures of knowledge Franklin has left us?

While Scousin currently gallivants around the Mediterranean Sea on a cruise (because who doesn’t love a little sun while discussing American history?), he raises an interesting point: Benjamin Franklin was not just a quirky inventor but a man whose ideals and inventions paved the road for modern-day America. From discussing trade and taxes to war and discrimination, Franklin, according to Scousin, tackled the topics of today with a perspective that remains relevant. He calls Franklin the “jack of all trades and master of all,” which is something you don’t hear every day—unless you’re at a family reunion with that one uncle who can fix anything.

For those who might think of Franklin as simply a “notorious womanizer,” Scousin takes a deeper dive into the complexities of Franklin’s relationships, particularly with his wife, Deborah. They faced challenges that any modern couple might, with Franklin’s long absences in London leading to a separation that had less to do with scandal and more with circumstance. It turns out, at least according to Scousin, that while he reveled in the company of ladies, Franklin’s love for Deborah remained steadfast, especially considering they were ultimately put to rest next to each other in death—true evidence of a remarkable bond.

However, not all of Franklin’s relationships were harmonious, especially with his son, William. In a painful twist of family dynamics, Scousin recounts how William’s loyalty to the British during the American Revolution caused a rift between them that not even the most eloquent of Franklin’s letters could mend. One can almost picture Franklin shaking his head in disbelief as he pens another letter, realizing that sometimes family friction runs deeper than political disagreements. It certainly raises the question: how would most parents feel if their child were funding an army against them? Likely not warm and fuzzy.

Scousin’s aim with his book is not merely to outline Franklin’s achievements but to glorify his essence as someone who could connect with the elite and the everyday person alike. He suggests that if Franklin were alive today, he’d be the perfect dinner guest—able to regale tales to both the intellectuals and the everyday joes. Just imagine him casually chatting about electricity with Thomas Edison or debating politics over a frothy beer! Franklin’s combination of intellect and relatability makes him a figure we could all admire and, perhaps more importantly, a role model for bridging societal divides.

So whether one is flipping through the pages of Scousin’s book on a sunny afternoon or just pondering the complexities of American history while sipping lemonade on a porch, one thing is clear: Benjamin Franklin’s legacy continues to be both enduring and enlightening. Could he truly be the greatest American? That’s for readers to decide, but one thing’s for sure—Franklin’s uniqueness, wealth of knowledge, and personal charm make him a figure anyone would be lucky to sit down with for a chat (and a cold drink). Now, let’s raise our glasses and toast to the man who might just take the crown as our greatest American!