Andrew Carnegie Biography
Andrew Carnegie (November 25, 1835 – August 11, 1919) was a Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist who played a pivotal role in the expansion of the American steel industry in the late 19th century. Born in Dunfermline, Scotland, Carnegie immigrated to the United States with his family in 1848, settling in Allegheny, Pennsylvania. Starting his career as a bobbin boy in a cotton factory, he quickly ascended the industrial ladder through positions in the telegraph and railroad industries.
In the early 1870s, Carnegie co-founded his first steel company near Pittsburgh, which eventually became the Carnegie Steel Company. Through innovative business practices and a focus on efficiency, he built a steel empire that dominated the American market. In 1901, he sold his company to J.P. Morgan for $480 million, making him one of the wealthiest individuals of his era.
Following the sale of his steel company, Carnegie dedicated himself to philanthropy, inspired by his belief in the "Gospel of Wealth," which asserted that the rich have a moral obligation to distribute their wealth for the betterment of society. He donated over $350 million to various causes, including the establishment of public libraries, educational institutions, and foundations. Notably, he funded the creation of over 2,500 libraries worldwide, known as Carnegie libraries, and established institutions such as Carnegie Mellon University and the Carnegie Institution for Science.
Carnegie passed away on August 11, 1919, in Lenox, Massachusetts, leaving behind a legacy as a titan of industry and a pioneer in philanthropic endeavors.
Trivia About Andrew Carnegie
- Carnegie's first job in the United States was as a bobbin boy in a cotton factory, earning $1.20 per week.
- He authored an autobiography titled Autobiography of Andrew Carnegie, providing insights into his life and business philosophy.
- Carnegie's philanthropic efforts led to the establishment of Carnegie Hall in New York City, a premier concert venue.
- Despite his immense wealth, Carnegie was known for his modest lifestyle and strong advocacy for the responsible use of wealth.
Famous Quotes by Andrew Carnegie
- "The man who dies thus rich dies disgraced."
- "I resolved to stop accumulating and begin the infinitely more serious and difficult task of wise distribution."
- "Surplus wealth is a sacred trust which its possessor is bound to administer in his lifetime for the good of the community."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was Andrew Carnegie?
Andrew Carnegie was a Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist who led the expansion of the American steel industry in the late 19th century and became one of the wealthiest individuals of his time.
What is Andrew Carnegie known for?
Carnegie is known for founding the Carnegie Steel Company, which played a significant role in the growth of the American steel industry. He is also renowned for his extensive philanthropic efforts, including funding public libraries, educational institutions, and various foundations.
How did Andrew Carnegie contribute to society?
Carnegie contributed to society by donating over $350 million to various causes, establishing over 2,500 public libraries, and founding institutions such as Carnegie Mellon University and the Carnegie Institution for Science.
Related Literary Movements
While Andrew Carnegie was primarily an industrialist and philanthropist, his writings, including his autobiography and essays like "The Gospel of Wealth," have influenced discussions on wealth distribution and social responsibility, intersecting with literary movements focused on social reform and ethical considerations in literature.
Andrew Carnegie books
Title | Published |
---|---|
James Watt | 1905 |
Round the World | 1884 |
Autobiography of Andrew Carnegie | 1920 |
An American Four-In-Hand in Britain | 1883 |
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