Andrew Carnegie
Biography of Andrew Carnegie
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: Andrew Carnegie
Common Aliases: The Steel King, The Patron Saint of Libraries
Birth and Death Dates
Born: November 25, 1835
Died: August 11, 1919
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: Scottish-American
Professions: Industrialist, Philanthropist, Business Magnate
Early Life and Background
Andrew Carnegie was born in Dunfermline, Scotland, to a family that faced economic hardship. His father, William Carnegie, was a handloom weaver, and his mother, Margaret Morrison Carnegie, was the daughter of a shoemaker. The advent of industrialization in the textile industry led to the decline of traditional weaving, plunging the family into poverty. In 1848, seeking better opportunities, the Carnegies emigrated to the United States, settling in Allegheny, Pennsylvania.
Carnegie's early life in America was marked by hard work and determination. At the age of 13, he began working as a bobbin boy in a cotton factory, earning a mere $1.20 per week. Despite the grueling work, Carnegie was an avid reader, borrowing books from the personal library of Colonel James Anderson, who opened his collection to working boys every Saturday. This access to books ignited Carnegie's lifelong passion for learning and self-improvement.
Major Accomplishments
Andrew Carnegie's rise from rags to riches is a quintessential American success story. He started his career as a telegraph messenger boy and quickly advanced to become a telegraph operator. His big break came when he was hired as a secretary and telegraph operator by Thomas A. Scott of the Pennsylvania Railroad. Carnegie's keen business acumen and innovative thinking led him to invest in various ventures, including iron and oil, which laid the foundation for his future empire.
Carnegie's most significant accomplishment was the establishment of the Carnegie Steel Company, which revolutionized the steel industry. By adopting the Bessemer process, he was able to produce steel more efficiently and at a lower cost than his competitors. This innovation positioned Carnegie Steel as the largest and most profitable industrial enterprise of its time. In 1901, Carnegie sold his company to J.P. Morgan for $480 million, making him one of the wealthiest men in the world.
Notable Works or Actions
Beyond his industrial achievements, Andrew Carnegie is renowned for his philanthropic endeavors. He believed in the "Gospel of Wealth," a philosophy that the rich have a moral obligation to distribute their wealth in ways that promote the welfare and happiness of the common man. True to his beliefs, Carnegie donated over $350 million, nearly 90% of his fortune, to various causes.
Carnegie's most notable contributions include the establishment of over 2,500 public libraries across the globe, the founding of Carnegie Mellon University, and the creation of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. His support for education and peace initiatives has had a lasting impact on society.
Impact and Legacy
Andrew Carnegie's legacy is multifaceted, encompassing both his industrial achievements and his philanthropic contributions. As a titan of the steel industry, he played a pivotal role in the industrialization of the United States, helping to transform it into a global economic powerhouse. His business practices and innovations set new standards for efficiency and productivity.
Carnegie's philanthropic legacy is equally significant. His contributions to education, science, and peace have left an indelible mark on the world. The libraries he funded democratized access to knowledge, empowering countless individuals to improve their lives through education. Institutions like Carnegie Mellon University continue to advance research and innovation, while the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace remains a leading voice in global diplomacy.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Andrew Carnegie is widely quoted and remembered for his insights on wealth, success, and philanthropy. His life story embodies the American Dream, illustrating how determination and innovation can lead to extraordinary success. Carnegie's quotes often reflect his belief in the power of education and the responsibility of the wealthy to contribute to the greater good.
His famous assertion that "the man who dies rich dies disgraced" encapsulates his philosophy of wealth distribution and continues to inspire modern philanthropists. Carnegie's emphasis on self-improvement, hard work, and giving back to society resonates with people across generations, ensuring that his words and deeds remain influential long after his passing.
Quotes by Andrew Carnegie
Andrew Carnegie's insights on:
Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishment toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.
The average person puts only 25% of his energy and ability into his work. The world takes off its hat to those who put more than 50% of their capacity, and stands on its head for those few and far between souls who devote 100%.
There is no use whatever trying to help people who do not help themselves. You cannot push anyone up a ladder unless he be willing to climb himself.
Whatever I engage in, I must push inordinately; therefore should I be careful to choose that life which will be the most elevating in its character.
There is no use whatsoever trying to help people who do not help themselves. You cannot push anyone up a ladder unless he is willing to climb himself.
If you want to be happy, set a goal that commands your thoughts, liberates your energy and inspires your hopes.
Don't be afraid to give your best to what seemingly are small jobs. Every time you conquer one it makes you that much stronger. If you do the little jobs well, the big ones will tend to take care of themselves.