Andrew Carnegie by David Nasaw is an in-depth biography of one of the most iconic figures of the 19th and 20th centuries. Carnegie was both a capitalist and a philanthropist, dedicating his life and fortune to the improvement of the lives of workers, the public welfare, and the advancement of knowledge.
The book begins with an overview of Carnegie's early life. He was born into poverty in Scotland in 1835, but came to the United States at age 13 with his family. After a few years, he became a key worker in the burgeoning telegraph industry. Working under Thomas A. Scott, Carnegie quickly earned a reputation as a hard worker and gained the trust of his employer. His loyalty resulted in his promotion to superintendent of the Pennsylvania Railroad's western division. He eventually resigned to focus on building his own business empire.
Carnegie worked tirelessly to develop his companies, often taking risks to grow his business. His investments in the steel industry were particularly successful, as he was able to become the dominant player in the market by the early 1900s. These successes weren't without controversy, as Carnegie was often criticized for the way he ran his businesses and the harsh treatment of his workers. Despite the criticism, Carnegie was incredibly proud of his accomplishments, driving himself to the point of exhaustion in pursuit of success.
In later life, Carnegie became known for his philanthropic efforts. He donated most of his fortune to various causes, from educational organizations to various charities. His donations set a record for the largest charitable donation of the time and demonstrated his commitment to making life better for those less fortunate. His efforts promote the idea of using mass wealth for public service and shaped both the business world and society at large.
David Nasaw's book is an exhaustive look at the life of one of the United States' most influential industrialists. The book covers Carnegie's successes, failures, and philanthropic contributions. Through several sources, Nasaw paints a vivid picture of Carnegie's rise to prominence and the challenges he faced throughout his life. The book provides an interesting insight into Carnegie's life, as well as the business world of the 19th and 20th centuries. It's a must-read for anyone looking to gain insight into the story of one of America's greatest entrepreneurs.
