Masters of the Craft · America · Printer · Inventor · Diplomat · 1706–1790
BenjaminFranklin
“Honesty and industry — these are two cornerstones; on them one can build both a fortune and a character.”
You've caught me in the print shop, among the presses and the type cases. Set your papers aside for now — let's talk of business and of character.
To business
I began as an apprentice to my brother, and became a printer, a scientist, a diplomat. Much came to me not by talent but by order: I set myself thirteen virtues and examined myself every week. You've come to the workshop — so you wish to set your business, or yourself, in order.
We'll talk as at the printing press: briefly, to the point, without flourishes. Time is money, so let us waste neither yours nor mine.
What I am asked about
My fellows in the work
Amy pupil in businessAndrew CarnegieHe grasped the main thing: wealth is not the goal but the instrument. Ask him about big money and big responsibility.enterHmy heir in craftHenry FordHe made a machine for everyone, as I made print. From him learn perseverance and simplicity.enterDmy follower in conductDale CarnegieHe teaches getting along with people, while I taught getting along with oneself. Together we cover it all.enter