The Fascinating Story Behind Who's On The $100 Dollar Bill

The United States $100 bill is one of the most widely recognized and used denominations in the world, but have you ever stopped to think about the person whose portrait graces its surface? Benjamin Franklin, one of America's founding fathers, has been featured on the $100 bill since 1913, but his story is far more complex and fascinating than you might imagine. This article will delve into the life and legacy of Benjamin Franklin, and explore the reasons why he was chosen to be featured on the $100 bill.

Benjamin Franklin was a true Renaissance man - a polymath who made lasting impacts in fields such as politics, science, literature, and diplomacy. He was a leading figure in the Enlightenment and a key player in the American Revolution, and his influence can still be felt today. As a statesman, scientist, and writer, Franklin's contributions to American history are immeasurable, and his legacy has endured for centuries.

So, who was Benjamin Franklin, and why is his portrait on the $100 bill? Let's take a closer look.

The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin was born on January 17, 1706, in Boston, Massachusetts, to a family of modest means. His early life was marked by a love of reading and a passion for learning, which would serve him well throughout his life. Franklin's education was largely self-directed, and he developed a strong work ethic and a talent for writing and speaking.

Franklin's career was a long and distinguished one, spanning many fields. He began his career as a printer's apprentice, but quickly made a name for himself as a writer and publisher. He founded the Pennsylvania Gazette, one of the most widely read newspapers in the colonies, and used it to advocate for colonial rights and independence.

Franklin's scientific contributions were also significant, and he is credited with many groundbreaking discoveries. He was a prolific inventor, and his designs for bifocal glasses, the lightning rod, and the Franklin stove are still used today. He was also a pioneer in the field of electricity, and his experiments with lightning rods and kites led to a deeper understanding of the natural world.

As a diplomat, Franklin played a key role in securing French support for the American Revolution. His ability to negotiate and charm proved invaluable, and he became one of the most respected and beloved figures of his time.

The Reasons Behind Franklin's Placement on the $100 Bill

So, why was Benjamin Franklin chosen to be featured on the $100 bill? According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Franklin's selection was based on his many contributions to American history and culture.

"Benjamin Franklin was a true American original," says David Ortiz, a historian at the National Archives. "He was a founding father, a scientist, a writer, and a diplomat. He embodied the spirit of American innovation and ingenuity, and his legacy continues to inspire people around the world."

Franklin's portrait was first featured on the $100 bill in 1913, as part of a larger effort to standardize and modernize the country's currency. Since then, his image has remained a constant presence on the bill, a reminder of the enduring power of American history and culture.

The Evolution of the $100 Bill

The $100 bill has undergone many changes over the years, but Franklin's portrait has remained a constant feature. Here are a few notable examples:

* 1913: The $100 bill was first introduced, featuring Franklin's portrait and a vignette of a vignette of Independence Hall.

* 1928: The $100 bill was redesigned, featuring a new portrait of Franklin and a vignette of the Liberty Bell.

* 1996: The $100 bill was redesigned again, featuring a new security thread and a portrait of Franklin with a more subtle color scheme.

* 2013: The $100 bill was redesigned once more, featuring a new portrait of Franklin and a new security thread that incorporates advanced security features.

Security Features and Counterfeiting

One of the most significant changes to the $100 bill in recent years has been the addition of advanced security features designed to prevent counterfeiting. According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the $100 bill is one of the most widely counterfeited denominations in the world, and efforts have been made to stay ahead of would-be counterfeiters.

The new $100 bill features a number of advanced security features, including:

* A 3D Security Ribbon: This ribbon features images of 100s and liberty bells in a 3D pattern.

* A Color-Shifting 100: This feature uses special ink that changes color from copper to green when tilted.

* A Bell in the Inkwell: This feature uses a bell-shaped design that changes color from copper to green when tilted.

* A Security Thread: This thread is embedded in the paper and glows pink when held under ultraviolet light.

These features are designed to make it difficult for counterfeiters to reproduce the bill, and to make it easier for people to verify its authenticity.

Conclusion

Benjamin Franklin's portrait on the $100 bill is a testament to his enduring legacy as a true American original. His many contributions to science, politics, literature, and diplomacy continue to inspire people around the world, and his image remains a beloved and recognizable part of American culture.

As we look to the future, it's clear that Franklin's legacy will continue to endure. His commitment to innovation, creativity, and hard work is a shining example to us all, and his image on the $100 bill is a reminder of the power of American history and culture to inspire and uplift.