Why Is Andrew Carnegie Important In The Late 19th And Early 20th Century

Wealth and Power in the Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries

The lifestyles of the rich in the late 19th and early 20th centuries illustrate that money is earned through hard work, determination, and benevolence. Such wealthy men as Andrew Carnegie prove that personal affluence could benefit the community. The man was a captain of industry and without the likes of him; the country could not be a high industrial power as it is today. Carnegie was born in a one-room cottage in Scotland, but his perseverance, acumen, and contribution to the steel industry made him a notable philanthropist and one of the wealthiest Americans.

Carnegie began his journey to success as a messenger in a telegraph office. While at work, he met Thomas Scott, a superintendent of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, and became his telegrapher and private secretary. Scott became Carnegie’s mentor and helped him invest in the railroad business (Edge 37). Later, Carnegie endowed in the steel industry and contributed to the expansion of the American steel industry (Hill). He became the wealthiest American before committing himself to philanthropy and donating more than $350 million to foundations, charities, and universities (Herring). His 1889 article “The Gospel of Wealth” urged

Since then, Carnegie’s fortune has given support to everything from the creation of Sesame Street and Pell Grants to the discovery of insulin and destruction of nuclear weapons. His work has shaped public discourse and policy for over a century. His generosity has also benefited millions of people. As the first president of Corporation, he endowed in perpetuity with $135 million dedicated to the promotion of education and international peace (Carnegie 655). His primary intention was to benefit US citizens, but letter used part of his funds to help British Overseas Commonwealth