Sincerity, justice, and tranquility are admired virtues often associated with the legacies of great men. As mentioned in Benjamin Franklin's illustrious thirteen moral virtues, these words are among those that embody his beliefs about what virtues are required of a man to maintain admirable character. An emphasis on virtues appears to be a driving force among prominent figures in our nation's history. Every great man or moment in American history is linked to a virtue, almost as if to confirm its legitimacy. The United States of America is a nation founded on idealism and hope. These ideas have remained imprinted on the nation over time. The virtues presented in the Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin are similar to those discussed in President John Fitzgerald Kennedy's Profiles in Courage. Therefore, we can see the timeless importance we Americans place on virtuous leaders, which we would not have been so aware of before reading this essay. From the age of Benjamin Franklin to the turbulent era of John F. Kennedy, regardless of the time that has passed, Americans desire leaders who embody the virtues mentioned in Franklin's famous thirteen moral virtues. Perhaps what makes these two men part of an elite group of great Americans is their dominant presence in history. Their legacy is remembered as patriots with an unquestionable love for America and what is right; the kind of men who would put personal consequences aside if the outcome led to greater good for people. In Profiles of Courage, President Kennedy defines it best; “A man does what he must – despite personal consequences, despite obstacles and dangers and pressures – and this is the basis of all human morality” (Kennedy 266). Virtue...... at the center of the card...... noble Benjamin Franklin and John F. Kennedy.Works CitedFranklin, Benjamin. The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin. New York: Dover Publications, 1996. Print."John F. Kennedy Quotes." - John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, n.d. Web. November 22, 2013. Kennedy, John F. John F. Kennedy: Proclamation 3560 - Thanksgiving Day, 1963. John F. Kennedy: Proclamation 3560 - Thanksgiving Day, 1963. Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley The American Presidency Project, nd Web. November 22, 2013.Kennedy, John F. Profiles in Courage. New York: Harper & Row, 1964. Print.Snyder, K. Alan. "Meditative Principles". Reflect on the principles. WordPress Entries (RSS), ndWeb. November 22, 2013. Weintraub, Karl J. “The Puritan Ethic and Benjamin Franklin.” The Journal of Religion 56.3(1976): 223-37. JSTOR. Network. November 22. 2013.