John D. Rockefeller: Captain of Industry or Robber Baron?

The industrialist, John D. Rockefeller, of the late nineteenth century and early twentieth centuries is best characterized as a captain of industry. His achievements were in fact very positive because his company that he built provided oil for many people across the country. Oil was a big necessity at the time so his company helped many people. By saving up money to create his own small business, he built his way up buying many large oil companies to create the highly successful and profitable Standard Oil Company. Though he did want to be successful and wealthy, his motives were simply creating one powerful company. His fortune totaled $900,000,000 but he didn't just keep it for himself. Instead he put his fortune from his large monopoly to good use. He was a big part in creating the University of Chicago by donating $75 million to its funds. He set up the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research and donated another $50 million. He also donated $50 million to the General Education Board to help raise salaries for teachers and professors. He established the Rockefeller foundation and gave it $235 million. By creating such a successful business that provided oil and light to people all over, he was able to fulfill his dream and be honored for his charitable activities.