Final answer:
Franklin refers to Native Americans when using the term “savage,” but his work critiques this derogatory label by portraying Native American societies as complex and civilized.
Step-by-step explanation:
In “Remarks Concerning the Savages of North America,” Franklin is referencing the Native American tribes and communities that European settlers encountered on the North American continent. This term savage was often used by Europeans during this time period to describe indigenous peoples, reflecting the Europeans' perception of them as uncivilized or primitive compared to European civilization.
However, Franklin's work is often seen as a critique of the term and its use, as he highlights the complexity and civility of Native American societies contrary to the derogatory and simplistic label of 'savage'. He demonstrates a respect and appreciation for their culture and societal structures, contrasting the positive attributes of Native American societies with negative characteristics he observed in European societies. By doing so, Franklin challenges the assumptions and prejudices held by many of his contemporaries.