The Works of Benjamin Franklin; Containing Several Political and Historical Tracts Not Included in Any Former Edition, and Many Letters Official and Private Not Hitherto Published; with Notes and a Life of the Author. Volume I by Franklin, Benjamin; Sparks, Jared

Boston: Hilliard, Gray, and Company, 1840. First edition of Jared Sparks' authoritative compilation of Franklin's works and letters. Octavo, ten volumes bound in full contemporary polished calf with morocco spine labels lettered in gilt, gilt ruling to the spine, tissue-guarded engraved frontispiece portrait of Franklin, illustrated. In good condition. Benjamin Franklin earned the title of "The First American" for his early and indefatigable campaigning for colonial unity, initially as an author and spokesman in London for several colonies. As the first United States Ambassador to France, he exemplified the emerging American nation. Franklin was foundational in defining the American ethos as a marriage of the practical values of thrift, hard work, education, community spirit, self-governing institutions, and opposition to authoritarianism both political and religious, with the scientific and tolerant values of the Enlightenment.