Franklin Moses holds a complex and multifaceted background marked by significant educational pursuits and varied professional experiences. He attended South Carolina College but was dismissed in 1855. Moses later served as a private secretary to Governor Francis Wilkinson Pickens and held a military commission during the Civil War. Post-war, he transitioned into public service, holding multiple roles in the South Carolina House of Representatives and as the state's Adjutant and Inspector General. His tenure as the 75th governor of South Carolina was notable for his advocacy of civil rights, including the integration of the University of South Carolina and the establishment of a black militia. Despite his achievements, Moses faced multiple legal challenges and accusations of corruption throughout his career.

Franklin Moses's political identity is marked by a complex blend of progressive civil rights advocacy and controversial governance. He championed the integration of the University of South Carolina and established a black militia, yet his administration was marred by accusations of corruption and extravagant spending. Moses's approach reveals a tension between his progressive ideals and his allegedly self-serving political maneuvers, raising questions about the true motivations behind his policy decisions. His personal struggles, including drug addiction and family estrangement, further complicate his public persona, making his legacy a subject of both admiration and scrutiny.