This week, on the anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic, which was 113 years ago today, we’re shining a light on one of its biggest investors; a man who is as controversial as he was transformative to the future of America. The railroad, the steel industry, the treasury - all impacted greatly by his involvement and investment. So in this episode we’re going to explore the rise of one of the wealthiest and most powerful individuals in American history, as I ask… who is J.P. Morgan?

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Special guest for this episode:

• Jean Strouse, one of the preeminent biographers of J.P. Morgan and author of Morgan: American Financier. Her accomplished career includes being President of the Society of American Historians, and a consultant to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

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Highlights from this episode:

• On the anniversary of the Titanic's sinking, we dive into J.P. Morgan's controversial yet transformative impact on America's future, especially in finance and industry.
• Morgan was a key player in the railroad and steel industries, fundamentally changing the financial landscape of the United States during his time.
• Despite his immense influence, J.P. Morgan's wealth was debated; he was seen as not as rich as other contemporaries like Rockefeller, which adds complexity to his legacy.
• His early life was marked by privilege and education, shaping his future as a powerful banker who managed chaotic markets with a unique approach and keen understanding of finance.
• Morgan's contributions included organizing the creation of U.S. Steel and stabilizing financial crises, showcasing his dual role as a profit-driven businessman and a national stabilizer.
• Ultimately, J.P. Morgan's legacy is mixed; he is viewed as both a robber baron and a pivotal figure in America's economic development, leaving an imprint on culture and industry that persists today.

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Additional Resources:

Morgan: American Financier by Jean Strouse

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This episode is sponsored by What's Your Map

What's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219