John D. Rockefeller
Founded Standard Oil and became history's first billionaire, later giving away much of his fortune through major philanthropic foundations
Building a company so dominant that the government eventually forced its breakup under new antitrust laws, this industrialist became the richest person in modern history before turning to large-scale philanthropy.
Founding Standard Oil
Rockefeller founded Standard Oil, which grew to dominate the American oil refining industry so thoroughly that it controlled the overwhelming majority of the national market.
History's First Billionaire
Rockefeller became history's first billionaire, accumulating a fortune considered by some economic historians to be among the largest in modern history when adjusted for the size of the economy.
A Landmark Antitrust Case
Standard Oil's dominant market position led to a landmark U.S. Supreme Court antitrust ruling in 1911, forcing the company's breakup into numerous smaller, separate companies.
Major Philanthropic Legacy
Rockefeller became a major philanthropist later in life, funding significant medical research and education initiatives that continue operating through major foundations established in his name.
