Benjamin Franklin taught himself to read. He was born in Boston on January 17, 1706, and although he had limited formal education, he became an avid reader and an autodidact. Franklin's early years involved working in his family's candle and soap-making business, and he had limited access to books. However, he developed a love for reading and learning, and through his efforts, he became a highly educated and influential figure in American history. Franklin later went on to contribute significantly to various fields, including science, writing, and politics.