French chemist.

One of Europe’s most well-known and influential chemists. Franklin was a frequent visitor to his laboratory at l’Arsenal, which became a principal scientific center at Paris.

Distinguished student at the collège Mazarin (c. 1760). Appointed to the Academy of Sciences at Paris (1768).

Named a farmer-general and appointed inspecteur général des poudres et salpêtres by Turgot (1779). Member of the Committee of Agriculture (1785). Director of the Academy of Sciences (1785).

Made many attempts to save the Academy during the French Revolution, but was condemned to the guillotine.

Born in Paris.