“He that falls in love with himself will have no rivals.”

- Benjamin Franklin

Watching the Academy Awards last night (hey, even warmongers watch), got me thinking about American celebrity. Today, we place a great deal of emphasis on people’s ability to entertain us. People are famous for acting well or – in the case of the Jersey Shore crew or the Kardashians – not even that. Back in Washington’s day, people became famous for, some might say, loftier reasons.

Benjamin Franklin makes a fashion statement

Benjamin Franklin was famous. He was a world-renowned scientist and diplomat who had not only greatly advanced human understanding of electricity, but also invented the lightning rod, Franklin stove, and odometer. During the Revolution, the wily gentleman had used his guile to charm the French Court – particularly the female contingent. Through parties and chess games, he wore down France’s resistance to involvement in the fight against the British. He masterfully persuaded the French to send aid to the American cause and eventually declare war on the Britain, which proved decisive in the American victory.

Washington was famous too. In fact, he was perhaps the first American celebrity superstar. His inspirational bravery and leadership during the Revolution won him great admiration. America had him to thank for defending them from the British and founding their democracy. As such, even just a rumor of Washington passing through a town was enough to elicit spontaneous merriment and parades.

What are your thoughts on American celebrity today? Is it as deserved?