

But the harmonica’s popularity never really returned to what it had been when it was first introduced. Franklin himself ignored all of the controversy and continued to play the instrument until the end of his life with none of the symptoms mentioned. No explanation or proof was ever really given to any of these claims. Others thought that lead from the crystal bowls or paint was absorbed into the musicians' fingers when they touched the glass, causing sickness. Some people thought that the high-pitched, ethereal tones invoked the spirits of the dead, had magical powers, or drove listeners mad. A few listeners were also subject to ill effects after an incident in Germany where a child died during a performance, the harmonica was actually banned in a few towns. They complained of muscle spasms, nervousness, cramps, and dizziness. Some harmonica players became ill and had to stop playing the instrument. Over the years, some disturbing events began to be associated with the glass harmonica. īe sure to notice the electricity safety tips that are provided by PECO, Sponsor of "Benjamin Franklin: Glimpses of the Man." To learn even more about Ben Franklin and his world, try taking a look at some recommended resource materials, enrichment activities, and a brief glossary. To learn all that you can about the Franklin family, try taking a look at the family tree. This quick glimpse at the long life (1706 - 1790) of a complex man is meant to help you learn about Ben Franklin and also to let you see how Ben's ideas are still alive in our world today. You'll also find The Franklin Institute Science Museum. In Philadelphia, you can find both Ben's gravesite and the Benjamin Franklin National Memorial. Although he was born in Boston, the city of Philadelphia is remembered as the home of Ben Franklin. Today, we honor Ben Franklin as one of our Founding Fathers and as one of America's greatest citizens. He became famous for being a scientist, an inventor, a statesman, a printer, a philosopher, a musician, and an economist. He lived these words of wisdom by writing as much as he possibly could and by doing even more. FranklinĪmerica has never forgotten Benjamin Franklin because he did both.
#BENJAMIN FRANKLIN GLIMPSES OF THE MAN MOVIE#
Quicktime Movie Glimpses of The Man (1297k) "If you would not be forgotten, as soon as you are dead and rotten, either write things worth reading, or do things worth the writing." ~ B.
