Benjamin Franklin—statesman, inventor, and journalist—stands among the great heroes of American history. And who better to tell his story than one of his own descendants?
In this live webinar, the Goldwater Institute’s Timothy Sandefur sits down with Dr. Mark Skousen—economist, investment expert, historian, and eighth-generation descendant of Franklin—to bring America’s most prolific Founding Father to life. As Sandefur notes, “He’s America’s first self-made man,” a testament to Franklin’s unmatched drive, creativity, and ambition.
Skousen’s new book, The Greatest American, explores the ideas and achievements of the man the Founders themselves regarded as the greatest thinker of them all. And as Skousen puts it, “He truly is the epitome—the acme—of what American capitalism is all about.”
Together, Sandefur and Skousen dive into Franklin’s views on free trade, slavery, the Constitution, and the enduring legacy he left behind—revealing why Franklin remains one of the most modern, influential, and intellectually dynamic figures in American history.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a student of liberty, or simply someone who wants to better understand the mind of a true American visionary, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.
You can grab a copy of The Greatest American here and watch the webinar here or below.









