Franklin, Print, and Polemical Politics

Join us for an illuminating hybrid talk exploring the fascinating relationship between Benjamin Franklin and the world of print!

Through three compelling case studies, historian Becca Palmer will uncover how Franklin harnessed the power of the press. From establishing his own newspaper and managing his public image during the Stamp Act crisis, to the explosive controversy surrounding the infamous Hutchinson Letters.

Discover how print culture became a battleground for political ideas and how Franklin used it to influence events on both sides of the Atlantic.

Date: Friday 31st July
Time: 5:30pm – 7:00pm
Format: Hybrid (attend in person or online)

Introduction to Becca
Becca is a PhD candidate at UCL, where she studies the language of corruption in the American colonies between 1765 and 1775. Her work has been funded by the Wolfson Foundation and the Commonwealth Fund, and she has worked with the National Archives, Daughters of the American Revolution, and Benjamin Franklin House. From September, she will be a postdoctorate Research Officer at the LSE.

Part of the "How We Lost America" Exhibition
This event forms part of "How We Lost America", a wider exhibition examining the events, personalities, and political decisions that led to Britain's loss of the American colonies. Presented by Aurora Metro Arts & Media Ltd and made possible through support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, this important historic anniversary can be explored and shared with new audiences.

About Aurora Metro Arts & Media
Aurora Metro Arts & Media is a not-for-profit arts and education organisation dedicated to championing diversity and equality through creative projects and community engagement. Since the 1990s, Aurora Metro has delivered a wide range of innovative arts and media initiatives, including films, theatre productions, exhibitions, talks, workshops, competitions, books, and musical events across London and beyond.

Working with artists, filmmakers, musicians, writers, and educators, Aurora Metro creates high-quality cultural projects that inspire, educate, and connect communities.