The power within American society has largely been influenced by the location of money. Large businesses, over the course of history, have dictated the direction of legislation as well as the competition within the market place. John D. Rockefeller was a prominent player in the market with the creation of Standard Oil. Like Andrew Carnage with steel, Rockefeller took control of the oil industry and expanded his power and net worth. The demand for gasoline and other oil-dependent materials contributed to Rockefeller becoming the first American to net a billion dollars. As he grew older, his wealth was not simply used for personal demands. Rockefeller contributed too many charities and research, thus establishing himself as a leading philanthropist of his time. With the creation of Standard Oil, having leverage on the economic market, and continuous contributions to charities and research, Rockefeller became a pioneer of the industrial period. At an early age John D. Rockefeller established himself as a man of money. When Rockefeller reached the age of twelve, he had earned and saved upwards of fifty dollars in which he loaned to a farmer charging seven percent interest. According to Rockefeller “The impression was gaining ground with me that it was …show more content…
With the absence of his father, working and earning money came before school. Rockefeller, as he got older, realized the importance of receiving a proper education. Throughout his retirement, Rockefeller made donations to universities in order to provide better resources for its students. During his retirement, John D. Rockefeller and William Rainey Harper worked closely together. As partners, the two men would establish the University of Chicago. After the school was created, Rockefeller witnessed success within the first years. Many experts believe Rockefeller would contribute thirty million dollars towards the