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Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr.

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1998

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Book Brief

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Ron Chernow

Titan

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1998
Book Details
Pages

832

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 19th Century

Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Titan by Ron Chernow is a biography of John D. Rockefeller, Sr., who founded Standard Oil and became synonymous with both ruthless business practices and groundbreaking philanthropy. The book chronicles his early life, rise to monopolistic power, and eventual transformation into a global benefactor. It highlights Rockefeller's complex personality and examines his family dynamics, especially his relationship with his father and son. The biography also details Rockefeller's significant charitable contributions to education and medical science. The narrative addresses themes of economic consolidation, personal redemption, and philanthropy. Contains descriptions of abandonment, deceit, and exploitation.

Informative

Inspirational

Gritty

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.4

36,051 ratings

81%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Ron Chernow's Titan receives high praise for its comprehensive and engaging portrayal of John D. Rockefeller, balancing depth with readability. Critics commend the meticulous research and balanced narrative. However, some find the extensive detail overwhelming. Overall, it's hailed as a seminal biography, offering a nuanced view of Rockefeller's life and impact.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Titan?

A reader who enjoyed Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow or The House of Morgan by Ron Chernow will find Titan captivating. This biography of John D. Rockefeller Sr. appeals to history buffs, economic enthusiasts, and biography lovers who appreciate meticulous research and nuanced portrayals of influential historical figures.

4.4

36,051 ratings

81%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Ron Chernow (The Author)

A biographer known for his work on American historical figures, who wrote the book after discovering insightful private interviews with John D. Rockefeller.

A business mogul who dominated the oil industry with Standard Oil, amassed a massive fortune, and became a notable philanthropist during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

John D. Rockefeller's wife, a devout Christian, who shared his values and played a supportive role in their family life.

John D. Rockefeller's devout Baptist mother, whose virtues inspired many of his admirable qualities.

John D. Rockefeller's father, a charismatic yet deceitful con-man whose lifestyle left a mark on his son's life.

The only son of John and Cettie Rockefeller, who managed the family's philanthropic ventures and developed significant independence.

John D. Rockefeller, Junior's wife, who supported her husband and engaged in arts patronage and social activism.

The eldest Rockefeller daughter, known for her liveliness and education, but whose later life was marked by illness.

The youngest Rockefeller daughter, who sought psychiatric treatment in Europe and became an advocate of psychoanalysis.

The middle daughter of the Rockefellers who married Ezra Parmalee Prentice and led a relatively secluded rural life.

John D. Rockefeller's advisor on philanthropic ventures, known for his sound judgment and major influence on Rockefeller's charitable activities.

A journalist known for her exposé on Standard Oil, whose investigative work challenged Rockefeller and stirred public controversy.

Book Details
Pages

832

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 19th Century

Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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