On November 14, 1740, a charity school was established in Philadelphia that would evolve into the University of Pennsylvania. Benjamin Franklin soon became involved and advocated a curriculum that combined classical learning with practical subjects like science, commerce, and modern languages. This approach differed from many colonial colleges that focused mostly on training clergy. Over time, the institution expanded into a full college and later a research university with professional schools in law, medicine, and business. It attracted students from across the colonies and the young nation. The founding reflects the growing importance of urban education and intellectual life in eighteenth-century America.
