Acquired

Standard Oil Part I

156 snips
Sep 22, 2021
Dive into the saga of Standard Oil and its titan, John D. Rockefeller, whose rise to unprecedented wealth redefined American capitalism. Discover how this former nobody manipulated oil prices and orchestrated strategies that shaped the modern corporate landscape. Delve into the family's contrasting influences and explore Rockefeller's ruthless tactics that led to his monopoly over 90% of the oil market. The discussions also touch on the lasting legacy of Standard Oil, revealing how its triumphs and controversies resonate in today's business world.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Standard Oil's Impact

  • John D. Rockefeller's biographer, Ron Chernow, highlights the raw and formative nature of industrial capitalism during Rockefeller's time.
  • Standard Oil significantly shaped business practices and influenced subsequent regulations.
ANECDOTE

Devil Bill

  • John D. Rockefeller's father, William Avery Rockefeller, was a snake oil salesman known as "Devil Bill".
  • He pretended to be deaf and mute, miraculously regaining his senses upon meeting his future wife, Eliza.
ANECDOTE

A Miraculous Cure and a Secret Girlfriend

  • William Avery Rockefeller, upon meeting Eliza Davison, was miraculously cured of his pretended deafness.
  • After marrying Eliza, he introduced his girlfriend, Nancy, as the family housekeeper.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app