AP US History in 1 Minute Daily: Gospel of Wealth (Day 190/309)

Hey APUSHers, let’s chat about the Gospel of Wealth as part of my series- APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!

Steel King, Trust King, Oil King, Quartz

In the late 19th century, successful industrialists used religion to justify their riches and to promote the importance of philanthropy. 

Rockefeller as Powerful Industrialist, Wikimedia Commons

John D. Rockefeller believed that “God gave” him his wealth due to his proper Protestant work ethic, while Andrew Carnegie advocated for social responsibility in regards to the fortunes of the wealthy.

Carnegie’s Philanthropy, Wikimedia Commons

Carnegie proposed the Gospel of Wealth, which argued that those who accumulated substantial wealth had a moral obligation to address societal issues, such as access to education and medical services. 

Carnegie Library of Montgomery, Library of Congress

He donated a substantial portion of his wealth to establish libraries, schools, and cultural institutions, emphasizing education as a key avenue for social progress. Rockefeller created the Rockefeller Foundation which aimed to improve public health, promote education, and advance scientific research.

The Gospel of Wealth had a significant impact on philanthropy, encouraging wealthy individuals to use their fortunes to establish charitable institutions and to contribute to the betterment of society. 

Join me tomorrow as I explain Late 19th Century International Immigration in the next APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!