Andrew Carnegie And The Rise Of Big Business

Harold C. Livesay
37 pages1-hour read
Nonfiction
Biography
Adult
Published in 1975

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Book Brief

Harold C. Livesay

Andrew Carnegie And The Rise Of Big Business

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1975
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Genre
Education

•

Biography
Setting

United States • 19th Century

Theme
Economics
Topic
Business & Economics

•

Education

•

US History
First Publication Year

1975

Publisher

Longman

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Andrew Carnegie and the Rise of Big Business by Harold C. Livesay chronicles Andrew Carnegie's journey from a poor immigrant to a leading industrialist in 19th-century America, detailing his ventures in railroads and steel, the adoption of innovative business practices, and his eventual retirement marked by philanthropic efforts inspired by his essay "The Gospel of Wealth." The book touches on violent labor strikes which may be distressing to some readers.

Informative

Inspirational

Adventurous

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

3.5

303 ratings

48%

Loved it

35%

Mixed feelings

17%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Harold C. Livesay's Andrew Carnegie and the Rise of Big Business offers a well-researched, insightful biography of Carnegie, highlighting his impact on American industry. Reviewers praise the detailed economic context and accessible narrative. However, some criticize its lack of depth on personal aspects of Carnegie's life. Overall, it's a strong introductory text on industrial capitalism.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Andrew Carnegie And The Rise Of Big Business?

A reader who enjoys Andrew Carnegie and the Rise of Big Business by Harold C. Livesay is likely interested in American history, biographies, and the industrial revolution. Similar books include The Tycoons by Charles R. Morris and Titan by Ron Chernow. This reader appreciates detailed narratives of influential figures in business.

3.5

303 ratings

48%

Loved it

35%

Mixed feelings

17%

Not a fan

Key Figures

A prominent entrepreneur whose early life in Scotland and America, rapid ascent from a telegraph messenger to a major industrialist, and achievements in the steel industry are central to the narrative. His complex business relationships and philanthropic endeavors are key aspects of his story.

Andrew Carnegie’s father, whose struggles to adapt to the Industrial Revolution motivate Andrew to succeed in the industrial world. He briefly appears in the early part of Andrew's life, setting the stage for Andrew’s ambitions.

A superintendent at the Pennsylvania Railroad and a mentor to Andrew Carnegie, helping him learn about modern corporate operations and investment. His complex relationship with Carnegie highlights Carnegie's early career in railroads and business.

A business associate of Andrew Carnegie who becomes a partner in Carnegie Steel. His differing views on labor management and role in the Homestead Strike highlight tensions within Carnegie's business operations.

Andrew Carnegie’s younger brother, who works under him in various industries. His tenure as chairman of Carnegie's company reflects the pressures and challenges faced by those close to Andrew.

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Genre
Education

•

Biography
Setting

United States • 19th Century

Theme
Economics
Topic
Business & Economics

•

Education

•

US History
First Publication Year

1975

Publisher

Longman

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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