Who's On The $100 Bill? The Surprising Truth!

Have you ever wondered who exactly is gracing the front of the American one hundred dollar bill? It's a common question, and the answer might not be as widely known as you think. Many people are familiar with George Washington on the one-dollar bill or Abraham Lincoln on the five, but the face on the $100 bill often remains a mystery. The individual on this high-denomination note has played a pivotal role in shaping American history and ideals, making him a figure of immense importance and influence. He's not a president, a general, or even a particularly well-known founding father in the traditional sense. Yet, his contributions have been so significant that he's earned a place on one of the most circulated and recognized banknotes in the world. So, who is this man of influence and how did he end up on the hundred-dollar bill?

Meet Benjamin Franklin

The man you see on the American 100 dollar bill is none other than Benjamin Franklin! A true Renaissance man, Franklin was a polymath whose contributions spanned across various fields. He was a leading author, printer, political theorist, politician, postmaster, scientist, inventor, humorist, civic activist, statesman, and diplomat. Unlike many other figures on U.S. currency, Benjamin Franklin was never a president of the United States. However, his impact on the nation's formation and development is undeniable. Franklin was a key figure in the American Enlightenment, advocating for reason and individual liberty. His writings, such as "Poor Richard's Almanack," offered practical advice and promoted civic virtue. As a scientist, he conducted groundbreaking experiments in electricity and invented the lightning rod, among other things. Beyond his intellectual and scientific achievements, Franklin was a crucial diplomat, securing French support during the American Revolutionary War. He was also a strong advocate for colonial unity and played a significant role in drafting the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. His presence on the $100 bill is a testament to his enduring legacy and his profound influence on American society. Benjamin Franklin's commitment to education, innovation, and public service continues to inspire people around the world.

Why Benjamin Franklin?

So, why was Benjamin Franklin chosen to be on the American 100 dollar bill? Given that he wasn't a president, the decision might seem unusual at first glance. However, when you consider Franklin's multifaceted contributions to the birth and development of the United States, the choice becomes clear. One primary reason is his role as one of the Founding Fathers. Franklin was deeply involved in the drafting of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, two foundational documents that shaped the nation's principles and governance. His wisdom, diplomatic skills, and ability to forge compromises were crucial in uniting the diverse interests of the colonies. Another significant factor is Franklin's embodiment of the American spirit of innovation, self-improvement, and civic engagement. His life story, from humble beginnings to international acclaim, exemplifies the American Dream. Franklin's advocacy for education, his entrepreneurial ventures, and his dedication to public service made him a role model for generations of Americans. Furthermore, Franklin's image on the $100 bill serves as a reminder of the importance of intellectual curiosity, scientific advancement, and the pursuit of knowledge. His presence encourages people to think critically, question assumptions, and strive for personal and societal progress. In essence, Benjamin Franklin on the $100 bill represents the values and ideals that underpin the American experiment, making him a fitting symbol of the nation's aspirations.

The History of the $100 Bill Design

The design of the American 100 dollar bill has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting advancements in printing technology and efforts to combat counterfeiting. The first $100 bill was issued in 1862 as a Legal Tender Note, featuring an eagle on the front and a vignette of Abraham Lincoln on the back. Over the following decades, the design underwent several changes, with different images and security features being introduced. Benjamin Franklin first appeared on the $100 bill in 1914 as part of the Federal Reserve Note series. The original design featured a portrait of Franklin on the left and an allegorical figure representing Labor on the right. In 1969, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing standardized the designs of all Federal Reserve Notes, and Franklin's portrait became the central image on the front of the $100 bill. The back of the bill features Independence Hall in Philadelphia, a tribute to Franklin's role in the nation's founding. The most recent redesign of the $100 bill was introduced in 2013, incorporating advanced security features such as a 3-D security ribbon, a color-shifting bell in the inkwell, and microprinting to deter counterfeiting. These features make the new $100 bill one of the most secure and sophisticated banknotes in the world, while still honoring Benjamin Franklin's legacy. The evolution of the $100 bill's design reflects the ongoing efforts to balance aesthetic appeal with enhanced security, ensuring its integrity and reliability as a medium of exchange.

Fun Facts About Benjamin Franklin

Beyond his prominent place on the American 100 dollar bill, Benjamin Franklin's life is full of fascinating and quirky facts that highlight his unique personality and intellect. Did you know that Franklin was an accomplished swimmer and is credited with inventing swimming fins? As a young man, he even considered becoming a professional swimming instructor. Franklin was also a prolific writer, using pseudonyms like Poor Richard and Silence Dogood to publish witty and insightful articles and essays. His "Poor Richard's Almanack" was filled with memorable aphorisms and proverbs, such as "Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise." In addition to his scientific pursuits, Franklin was a skilled musician, playing the harp, guitar, and even inventing his own instrument called the glass armonica. He was also a practical joker with a keen sense of humor, often playing pranks on his friends and colleagues. Despite his many accomplishments, Franklin remained humble and approachable, always eager to learn and share his knowledge with others. His insatiable curiosity and willingness to experiment led to numerous inventions and discoveries that have had a lasting impact on society. These fun facts offer a glimpse into the multifaceted character of Benjamin Franklin, revealing the man behind the portrait on the $100 bill.

The Symbolism of Independence Hall

If you flip over an American 100 dollar bill, you'll see an image of Independence Hall, located in Philadelphia. This building is not just any historical landmark; it's a powerful symbol of American independence and self-governance. Independence Hall is where the Declaration of Independence was debated and signed in 1776, marking the official birth of the United States as an independent nation. Eleven years later, in 1787, it was also the site of the Constitutional Convention, where the U.S. Constitution was drafted, laying the foundation for the country's system of government. The choice of Independence Hall as the backdrop for the $100 bill is deeply symbolic. It represents the core principles of liberty, democracy, and the rule of law that underpin the American republic. It's a reminder of the sacrifices and compromises made by the Founding Fathers to create a nation based on ideals of freedom and equality. The building itself is a testament to the enduring power of these ideals, standing as a physical representation of the nation's commitment to self-determination and the protection of individual rights. By featuring Independence Hall on the $100 bill, the U.S. government pays homage to the historical events that shaped the country and reinforces the importance of preserving its democratic values. It serves as a constant reminder to citizens of the significance of their rights and responsibilities in maintaining a free and just society. In conclusion, the presence of Independence Hall on the $100 bill is a powerful symbol of the nation's heritage and its ongoing pursuit of a more perfect union.

In conclusion, the figure on the front of the American 100 dollar bill is none other than Benjamin Franklin, a versatile and influential figure in American history. His presence on the bill is a testament to his contributions as a Founding Father, scientist, inventor, and diplomat. The image of Independence Hall on the back of the bill further reinforces the values of liberty and self-governance that are central to the American identity. Together, these symbols represent the enduring legacy of the nation's founding principles and the ongoing pursuit of a more just and prosperous society.

For more information about US currency visit the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.