Benjamin Franklin was an American polymath who made significant contributions to the understanding of electricity in the 18th century. He is best known for his famous kite experiment in 1752, where he demonstrated that lightning is a form of electricity. This experiment helped to establish the connection between electricity and atmospheric phenomena. Franklin's work led to the invention of the lightning rod, a device designed to protect buildings from lightning strikes. His research laid the groundwork for future studies in electromagnetism and electrical engineering, influencing how electricity is harnessed and utilized today.