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George Hearst: The Silver King of the Gilded Age

Lucas Reed

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George Hearst was born in Missouri in 1820. He was the son of a farmer, and he grew up in a poor family. However, Hearst was ambitious and determined to make a better life for himself. He left home at a young age and worked his way up from the bottom, eventually becoming a successful businessman.

George Hearst: Silver King of the Gilded Age

by Matthew Bernstein

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In 1859, Hearst struck gold when he discovered a rich silver deposit in Nevada. This discovery made him a millionaire overnight, and he quickly became one of the most powerful men in the American West. Hearst used his wealth to finance his political ambitions, and he served as a U.S. Senator from California from 1886 to 1891.

Hearst was a controversial figure during his lifetime. He was accused of being ruthless and greedy, and he was often criticized for his lavish lifestyle. However, Hearst was also a generous philanthropist, and he donated millions of dollars to various causes. He founded the Hearst Corporation, which is still one of the largest media companies in the world.

Hearst died in 1891 at the age of 71. He left behind a legacy of wealth, power, and philanthropy that would continue to shape American society for generations to come.

Early Life and Career

George Hearst was born in Franklin County, Missouri, on February 1, 1820. He was the son of William Hearst, a farmer, and Elizabeth Hearst (née Price). Hearst had a difficult childhood. His father died when he was young, and his mother was often sick. Hearst was forced to work on the family farm from a young age, and he had little opportunity for education.

In 1840, Hearst left home and traveled to California in search of gold. He worked as a miner for several years, but he was not successful. In 1848, Hearst moved to San Francisco and started a business selling supplies to miners. He was successful in this venture, and he quickly became a wealthy man.

The Silver King

In 1859, Hearst discovered a rich silver deposit in Nevada. This discovery made him a millionaire overnight, and he quickly became one of the most powerful men in the American West. Hearst used his wealth to finance his political ambitions, and he served as a U.S. Senator from California from 1886 to 1891.

Hearst was known as the "Silver King" because of his vast silver mining fortune. He owned several mines in Nevada, and he was responsible for producing a significant portion of the world's silver. Hearst's wealth allowed him to live a lavish lifestyle. He built a mansion in San Francisco, and he owned a fleet of yachts and racehorses.

Political Career

Hearst's political career was marked by both success and failure. He was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1886, but he was defeated for reelection in 1891. Hearst was also a unsuccessful candidate for President of the United States in 1888.

Despite his political setbacks, Hearst remained a powerful figure in American society. He was a close friend of President Ulysses S. Grant, and he played a key role in the development of the Republican Party.

Legacy

George Hearst died in San Francisco on February 28, 1891, at the age of 71. He left behind a legacy of wealth, power, and philanthropy that would continue to shape American society for generations to come.

Hearst's fortune was inherited by his son, William Randolph Hearst. William Randolph Hearst used his father's wealth to build a media empire that included newspapers, magazines, and radio stations. The Hearst Corporation is still one of the largest media companies in the world.

George Hearst's legacy is also reflected in the many buildings and institutions that bear his name. The Hearst Building in San Francisco is one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the city. The Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California, is a magnificent mansion that is now a state park.

George Hearst was a complex and controversial figure. However, there is no doubt that he was one of the most influential men in American history. His wealth, power, and philanthropy left a lasting legacy that continues to shape American society today.

George Hearst, The Silver King Of The Gilded Age George Hearst: Silver King Of The Gilded Age