What Did Ben Franklin Die Of
Benjamin Franklin died on April 17, 1790, in Philadelphia. The immediate cause of death was pleurisy, an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the lungs that caused severe chest pain and difficulty breathing.
Benjamin Franklin's Final Illness and Age at Death
In his final months, Franklin suffered from worsening shortness of breath and persistent chest pain. He was 84 years old, making him one of the longest-lived Founding Fathers. His health declined gradually, and he remained active in public affairs until just before his death.
Legacy After Benjamin Franklin's Death
Franklin's death marked the end of an era for the early American republic. His contributions to science, diplomacy, and civic life continued to shape the United States long after he passed. For more details on his life and death, see the Britannica biography of Benjamin Franklin.
