Andrew Carnegie was born in Dunfermline, Scotland on 25, 1835, to a very poor family. His was a weaver, and his mother mended shoes help make ends meet. From these humble beginnings, became one of the richest men ever to in the United States. Carnegie was not only rich; he shared his wealth throughout his lifetime. is estimated that Carnegie donated approximately 90 percent his amassed fortune to charity before his death 1919.

Carnegie was one of two children born a family that shared a living space with weaver's family. The Carnegies lived in one room, served as living room, kitchen, and bedroom for entire family. In an attempt to escape extreme , Carnegie's father borrowed some money, and moved his to the state of Pennsylvania in search of better life. Once in the United States, Carnegie work doing odd jobs until he found stable working for the railroads. It is here that began to earn his fortune.

By 1859, at age of 25, Carnegie had risen to superintendent the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. It is here where began making wise investments. He purchased stock in , iron, and oil. He also invested in George 's sleeping cars, which became a big success. By age of 30, Carnegie was a very wealthy . he founded the Carnegie Steel Company, which eventually U.S. Steel.

Throughout his lifetime, Carnegie stressed education. though he was not an educated person, his emphasized reading during his childhood. Carnegie donated freely education, and founded Carnegie-Mellon University. Carnegie felt it the duty of the very wealthy to share fortune with others. Andrew Carnegie is a true .