Swiss journalist.

Apparently met Franklin through their common scientific interests. Connected with European intellectuals such as Linnaeus and Rousseau.

Went to England in 1750 and was naturalized in 1757. Elected to The Royal Society, whose Philosophical Transactions published his paper on the earthquakes experienced at Neufchâtel, Switzerland (1755).

Arrived in Paris (1777). Began sending Franklin a series of lengthy letters full of schemes for aiding the American cause. His correspondence and numerous proposals eventually exhausted Franklin’s patience.

Elected to the American Philosophical Society (1791).

Born in Berne. Married Jane Fisher in 1758. Died in 1814 or 1815.