Final answer:
The Albany Plan of Union was Benjamin Franklin's proposal for a collective colonial government, which was rejected by the colonies at the time but influenced later governance structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Benjamin Franklin's plan to unite the 13 Colonies to fight against the French and Indians was called the Albany Plan of Union. This effort took place during the Albany Congress, which was primarily called to discuss defensive measures against the French and relations with the Iroquois. The plan proposed the formation of a "grand council" and a president appointed by the Crown to manage colonial affairs collectively. Although the Albany Plan was approved by the delegates of the Congress, it was ultimately rejected by the colonies and the Colonial Office due to fears of losing autonomous power. Nevertheless, Franklin's Albany Plan of Union later served as a significant influence on the Articles of Confederation and the subsequent Constitution.