John D. Rockefeller: A Historical Overview

John D. Rockefeller, born in 1839, became one of the wealthiest men in history by dominating the oil industry with Standard Oil. Despite a challenging upbringing, he built a vast business empire, often using aggressive tactics. His influence extended to railroads, leading to public outcry and antitrust actions. Rockefeller was also a philanthropist, donating millions to education and science. He retired in 1897, leaving a complex legacy of both ruthless business practices and significant charitable contributions.

What was John D. Rockefeller's father's profession?

• A banker

• A botanic physician

• A lawyer

• A school teacher

What was the significance of September 25th for Rockefeller?

• His birthday

• The day he got his first job

• The day he retired

• The day he started Standard Oil

How did Rockefeller initially respond to being drafted during the Civil War?

• He joined the army

• He fled the country

• He paid someone to take his place

• He protested against the draft

What was Rockefeller's strategy to eliminate competition in the oil industry?

• Buying oil from competitors

• Lowering prices to drive competitors out of business

• Forming alliances with competitors

• Ignoring competitors

What was the main reason Rockefeller built his own oil barrels?

• To save costs

• To create jobs

• To expand his business

• To ensure quality

Why did the Pennsylvania Railroad raise their shipping prices for Rockefeller?

• They had new management

• They wanted to make more profit

• They were expanding their railroad

• The discount was unsustainable

What was the public's perception of Rockefeller's business practices?

• They admired his success

• They were indifferent

• They supported his tactics

• They saw him as a villain

What was the outcome of the Sherman Antitrust Act for Standard Oil?

• It was dissolved

• It was fined heavily

• It was split into smaller companies

• It was unaffected

What was one of Rockefeller's major philanthropic contributions?

• Founding the University of Chicago

• Building a hospital

• Creating a public library

• Establishing a museum

What was Rockefeller's goal regarding his age?

• To live to be 90

• To live to be 100

• To live to be 80

• To live to be 110