Biography

The Rockefellers (1994x6)

Air date: May 30, 1994

Their name is synonymous with wealth. But over the past few generations, they have made as much of a mark in philanthropy as in business. John D. Rockefeller amassed a billion dollars in the last half of the nineteenth century by doggedly pursuing a single dream total control of the oil refining industry. By the turn of the century, the dream was realized and he was the world's richest man. This documentary draws on expert commentary and archival footage to tell the story of this unique robber baron. Though he was a ruthless businessman, he eschewed personal excess and passed along a legacy of philanthropy to his children. See how his son embraced his father's philosophy, devoting his life to giving away much of the money his father had made. And get an up-close look at the many charities funded by Rockefeller money.