Poor Richard's Almanack

Definition

Poor Richard's Almanack is a yearly publication written by Benjamin Franklin that was first published in 1732. This almanac combined practical advice, proverbs, and wit with weather forecasts and calendar information, reflecting Franklin's ideas on frugality, industry, and common sense. It became one of the most popular publications of its time, embodying the spirit of the American Enlightenment and influencing public thought through its accessible wisdom.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Poor Richard's Almanack was published annually from 1732 to 1758 and is known for its humor and insightful advice on everyday life.
2. The pseudonym 'Poor Richard' was created by Franklin to represent a persona that embodied the virtues of hard work and frugality.
3. One of the most famous quotes from the almanac is 'A penny saved is a penny earned,' highlighting Franklin's belief in economic prudence.
4. The publication sold thousands of copies each year, making it one of the best-selling books in colonial America.
5. Franklin used Poor Richard's Almanack to share his views on various topics, including morality, education, and civic responsibility, which resonated with the values of his time.

Review Questions

• How did Poor Richard's Almanack reflect the values and ideas of the American Enlightenment?
  • Poor Richard's Almanack exemplified the values of the American Enlightenment through its promotion of reason, practicality, and individualism. Franklin's use of proverbs and maxims encouraged readers to think critically about their lives and choices. The almanac offered practical wisdom that empowered individuals to improve their circumstances through hard work and smart decision-making, aligning with Enlightenment ideals of personal agency.
• Discuss the significance of the persona 'Poor Richard' and how it contributed to the success of Franklin's almanac.
  • 'Poor Richard' served as a relatable figure representing humility and common sense, which resonated with a wide audience. This persona allowed Franklin to communicate complex ideas in simple terms, making them accessible to the everyday reader. The character's emphasis on frugality and hard work not only entertained but also inspired readers to adopt similar virtues, enhancing the almanac’s popularity and relevance in colonial society.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of Poor Richard's Almanack on American culture and literature.
  • Poor Richard's Almanack had a profound long-term impact on American culture by establishing a tradition of using humor and wit in literature to convey moral lessons. It helped shape American identity by promoting values like self-improvement and community responsibility. Additionally, the almanac influenced future writers and thinkers by setting a precedent for combining practical advice with literary style, fostering a legacy that encouraged similar works throughout American history.

Related terms

Benjamin Franklin:

An American polymath who was a Founding Father, known for his contributions to science, politics, and literature, as well as for his role in establishing civic organizations.

Maxims: Short, pithy statements expressing a general truth or principle, often found in Poor Richard's Almanack and reflecting Franklin's philosophical outlook.

The American Enlightenment: An intellectual movement during the 18th century in America characterized by an emphasis on reason, science, and individualism rather than tradition.