The individual who famously accused Benjamin Franklin was Alexander Wedderburn, then Solicitor General for Great Britain. This significant accusation occurred during a pivotal moment in the escalating tensions between Great Britain and its American colonies, directly contributing to Franklin's eventual break with Britain.
The Accuser: Alexander Wedderburn
Alexander Wedderburn was a prominent British lawyer and politician. In his role as Solicitor General, he was responsible for presenting the British government's legal arguments. His confrontation with Benjamin Franklin was a highly public and humiliating event for Franklin, marking a turning point in his diplomatic career in London.
Details of the Accusation
The accusation against Benjamin Franklin by Wedderburn took place before a powerful body and was rooted in serious allegations of undermining British authority.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Accuser | Alexander Wedderburn |
| Date of Accusation | January 29, 1774 |
| Forum | The British Privy Council, a body of advisors to the monarch, which held considerable political and judicial power. |
| Key Allegations | Wedderburn asserted that Franklin was a “true incendiary” and further accused him of being the “prime conductor” in the agitation against the British government. These terms implied he was a dangerous instigator and a primary leader of revolutionary sentiment. |
| Basis of Accusation | The accusations largely stemmed from Franklin's role in the controversial leaking of Massachusetts Governor Thomas Hutchinson's letters. These private letters, filled with advice on how to suppress dissent and manage the colonies with a firmer hand, were illegally obtained by Franklin and subsequently published in America. Their release ignited public outrage and fueled the colonial resistance, making Franklin a target of intense British ire and contributing to his denouncement. |
The Impact of the Accusation
This public dressing-down by Wedderburn, lasting for hours, was a profound personal and professional humiliation for Franklin. At the time, Franklin was serving as a colonial agent in London, advocating for American interests. The incident solidified his view that reconciliation with Britain was becoming increasingly improbable. Shortly after, Franklin lost his position as Postmaster General for the colonies and ultimately returned to America, where he became a leading figure in the American Revolution.
The accusation highlighted the British government's growing frustration with colonial resistance and its willingness to publicly condemn those perceived as undermining its authority.
