Examines the truth and myth surrounding Benjamin Franklin's kite-flying experiment in electrical science. Describes the competitive scientific field in the mid-eighteenth century during which English and French rivals tried to out-do Franklin's international success. Presents the viewpoint that Franklin never flew the kite at all and was a prankster who outwitted the competition.
year: 2003
call number/section: 530.09
subjects: franklin, benjamin, 1706-1790, physics, statesmen, united states, biography, physicists, lightning, history, electricity, united states, science, revolution, 1775-1783