Franklin Proposes to Deborah Read

Benjamin Franklin, at the age of 17, proposed to 15-year-old Deborah Read while he was staying as a boarder in her family's home. At that time, Franklin was preparing for a trip to London at the request of Governor Keith. Deborah's mother was hesitant to allow the marriage due to Franklin's financial instability and the recent death of her own husband, which made her cautious about her daughter's future. Despite the initial rejection, Franklin and Deborah eventually entered into a common-law marriage, which was a significant arrangement at the time, allowing them to live together as a married couple without a formal ceremony. This union would later become a foundational aspect of Franklin's personal life, influencing his character and work. The relationship between Franklin and Deborah Read was marked by both challenges and mutual support. Franklin's financial struggles persisted for many years, but Deborah played a crucial role in managing their household and supporting his endeavors. Their partnership was characterized by a blend of personal and professional collaboration, as Deborah often assisted Franklin in his various projects. This common-law marriage not only provided Franklin with a stable home life but also contributed to his later successes as a statesman, inventor, and writer. The dynamics of their relationship reflect the complexities of marriage during that era, particularly in the context of social expectations and economic realities.