b) Albany Plan of Union

The Albany Plan of Union, proposed in 1754, was a visionary attempt to unite the American colonies under a more centralized government. Drafted by Benjamin Franklin, it envisioned a Grand Council representing all colonies and a President-General appointed by the British crown. Although never implemented due to colonial and British resistance, it was a significant step toward colonial unity. The plan’s emphasis on collective defense and legislative collaboration was ahead of its time, foreshadowing the cooperative efforts needed in the American Revolution. The Albany Plan remains a landmark in American history, symbolizing early attempts at forming a united national identity.