Ben Gates is a fictional character portrayed by actor Nicolas Cage in the National Treasure film series. He is an adventurous historian and treasure hunter who seeks to uncover hidden treasures and historical secrets. His character is known for his intelligence, resourcefulness, and determination. In the films, Ben often collaborates with his friends and family, including Riley Poole and Abigail Chase, to solve puzzles and decipher clues. His adventures typically involve American history, leading him to iconic locations and artifacts, such as the Declaration of Independence and the Freemasons.