Ben Gates is a well-educated history fanatic with a maverick's sense of adventure. His interest in the past comes from his own family lineage, as his ancestors had roles in some of America's historic events. The family's passion can be seen in the full names of both Ben and his father, Patrick Henry Gates. As he is both intelligent and cagey, quests that seem impossible to most can plausibly be accomplished by Ben Gates. Though he carries a sense of humor and wit, adversaries should not underestimate him, as they will rarely under stand all facets of a situation as well as he does. He also begins a romantic relationship with Abigail Chase in the series.