Benjamin Franklin: founding father, diplomat, scientist — and international man of mystery.
Despite Franklin being one of the most famous figures in American history, surprising new details about his life and his behind-the-scenes work in the founding of the United States continue to emerge more than two centuries after his death — including his little-known relationship with Spain.
In the years leading up to and after the American Revolution, Franklin was said to be highly regarded among the Spanish, befriending the country’s prince, becoming an honorary member of the Spanish Royal Academy and more. While his connections to Spain are thought to be myriad, his ties to the European nation have been largely lost to time — until now.
Dr. Thomas E. Chávez is an independent researcher, consultant and historian who for nine years led a team of researchers scouring Spanish archives for stories of Franklin’s connections there. Together, they collected, transcribed, translated and published dozens of documents detailing secretive and pivotal relationships that helped shape the unification of the 13 colonies and the birth of the United States.
Based on his work in the archives, Chávez has published four books related to Franklin’s secret Spanish connection and he lectures across the country about his findings.
Hear him speak at the University of Missouri-Kansas City Tuesday, April 28.
This event is free and open to the public, but space is limited. Reserve your seat today!
