What bird did Ben Franklin want? This question has intrigued historians and bird enthusiasts for centuries. Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, had a peculiar fascination with birds, and his choice of a national symbol was quite unique.
Benjamin Franklin, a versatile polymath, was a writer, printer, political theorist, and diplomat. He was also a naturalist and had a deep love for birds. In his famous essay, “The Wild Turkey,” he expressed his preference for the turkey as the national bird of the United States. However, his choice was met with skepticism and controversy, as the bald eagle was later adopted as the national symbol.
Franklin believed that the turkey was a more noble bird than the bald eagle. He argued that the turkey was “a much more respectable bird,” and that it “would be a singular honor to have it as a representative of the great American nation.” Franklin admired the turkey’s intelligence, gentleness, and benevolence. He wrote, “The turkey is a true original of America, and seems to excel all birds in dignity and propriety.”
In contrast, Franklin found the bald eagle to be a “bad moral character.” He criticized the eagle for its scavenging habits and its lack of intelligence. Franklin wrote, “He is a bird of bad moral character. He does not get his living by hunting for his food, like other birds, but by plundering the larder of the farmer.”
Despite Franklin’s preference for the turkey, the bald eagle was chosen as the national bird in 1782. This decision was influenced by several factors, including the eagle’s symbolic significance as a fierce and powerful bird. The bald eagle was also seen as a representation of freedom and independence, which were crucial ideals during the American Revolution.
The controversy over the national bird choice highlights the diverse perspectives and values of the Founding Fathers. While Franklin’s preference for the turkey reflects his appreciation for natural beauty and benevolence, the choice of the bald eagle as the national bird underscores the importance of strength and independence in the early years of the United States.
In conclusion, what bird did Ben Franklin want? He wanted the turkey, a bird he believed to be noble and wise. Although the bald eagle was ultimately chosen as the national bird, Franklin’s preference for the turkey remains a fascinating aspect of American history and a testament to his deep appreciation for nature.
