Benjamin Franklin used the pen name Richard Saunders to publish Poor Richard’s Almanac. The first edition book was published on December 19th, 1732. An almanac is an annual publication that details important dates and statistics, including astronomical numbers and tide tables. Benjamin Franklin’s publish included similar information but was laid out in a new, unique writing style. 

The author changed the usual tone and voice that made it a far cry from the ordinary almanac. The new writing style delighted the readers and earned the book widespread praise.

The Almanacs Contents

Poor Richard’s Almanac contains;

• Astrological information
• Jokes
• Poems
• Weather predictions and
• Richard’s proverbs

In particular, Richard’s proverbs were not only insightful; they were a direct reflection of his hard-working, frugal and simplistic nature. Here are a few Poor Richard’s Almanac sayings that are popular today;

• Fear to do ill, and you need fear naught else
• A penny saved is a penny earned
• God helps them that help themselves
• Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy and wise

Franklin made 10,000 copies each year until 1758. The almanac was so popular it was translated to other languages for foreign readers.

About Benjamin Franklin.

From the tender age of 12, Benjamin Franklin worked for newspaper printing companies. He would later run away from home and work for several printers before settling with The Pennsylvania Gazette. At the age of 24, Benjamin became the sole owner of the company. His innovative nature inspired the first newspaper cartoon and a map with a story.