Franklin was the 15th of 17 children of Josiah Franklin a soap and candle maker in Boston. As he grew, Franklin liked helping his father in the candle making shop. At the age of twelve, Ben started an apprenticeship with his older brother James, a printer. Ben quickly became fond of the art, his quick mind and strong body were well suited in the trade. James Franklin was not very fond of Ben and began treating him harshly with bad working conditions and little food or pay. Franklin became unable to tolerate the harsh treatment from his