Andrew Carnegie

Standing proud over the rush and thrum of Midtown Manhattan, as it has done since 1891, New York’s stately Carnegie Hall is one of the best known concert venues in North America. The philanthropist that funded it, however, came from far more humble beginnings. Andrew Carnegie was born in a small weaver’s cottage in Dunfermline, in 1835, and when circumstances forced his struggling family to emigrate to America 13 years later, they took with them just a few basic possessions. You probably know the rest. Young Andrew’s dogged work ethic meant he rose quickly through the professional ranks, becoming involved in the expansion of the railroad network and spearheading the growth of the American steel industry. In the process, he became one of the wealthiest men in the country, renowned above all else for his philanthropy. In today’s money, he gave away around five billion dollars during the last 18 years of his life. The Dunfermline cottage where he was born is now a museum dedicated to his remarkable story.