Independent Legacies: Wills of Our Founding FathersIndependent Legacies: Wills of Our Founding Fathers

The founding fathers provided a rich legacy for the nation, drafting and implementing key documents, such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, which frame what is today’s governmental structure.

But many of these same men also left behind wills that included bequests and estates that would go on to provide additional support. Ben Franklin provided monetary support that led to educational opportunities in two major U.S. cities, while James Madison strove to protect his thoughts and insights on government affairs, many of which are still reviewed today.