Andrew Carnegie

On this day in 1835, Andrew Carnegie was born. He would go on to become the “richest man in the world.” A controversial figure, many criticize the manner in which he amassed his wealth. However, he is also one of the most prolific philanthropists in history, having given away more than $350 million in his lifetime. He is best known for the establishment of more than 2500 public libraries throughout the world. The millions he gave away in his lifetime continues to do good work right up to the present, accounting for billions of dollars of philanthropy.