William Franklin

William Franklin was an American lawyer and colonial official, born in 1731, and the illegitimate son of Benjamin Franklin. He served as the last colonial governor of New Jersey, representing British interests before the American Revolution. A loyalist, Franklin opposed the revolution, which ultimately led to his disowning by his father. During the revolution, he remained loyal to Britain, was imprisoned, and later moved to England. His life symbolizes the divisions among American colonists during the struggle for independence and highlights the personal conflicts faced by families divided by political loyalties.