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Benjamin Franklin's Kite Experiment
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● FeaturedBenjamin Franklin's famous kite experiment, designed to prove the electrical nature of lightning, is a classic image from American history. A common misconception surrounds the exact outcome of this dangerous endeavor.
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What People Remember
Many people remember Benjamin Franklin being struck by lightning during his kite experiment, proving his theory.
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What's Actually True
During his kite experiment in 1752, Benjamin Franklin *did not* get directly struck by lightning. He instead collected an electrical charge from a storm cloud onto a Leyden jar, which was a highly dangerous feat. Being struck by lightning would likely have killed him.
Tags
#benjamin franklin#electricity#kite experiment#science history#founding fathers
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