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George Hearst: The Silver King of the Gilded Age

George Bell

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George Hearst was a self-made millionaire who built his fortune in the silver mines of the American West. He was also a powerful political figure, serving as a U.S. Senator from California. Hearst's life is a fascinating story of ambition, success, and scandal.

Early life

George Hearst was born in Missouri in 1820. He was the son of a poor farmer. Hearst had little formal education, but he was a bright and ambitious young man. He left home at the age of 17 to seek his fortune in the West.

George Hearst: Silver King of the Gilded Age

by Matthew Bernstein

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Hearst worked as a miner, a storekeeper, and a surveyor. In 1859, he struck it rich when he discovered a silver mine in Nevada. Hearst's mine made him a millionaire overnight. He used his newfound wealth to invest in other mines and businesses. By the early 1870s, Hearst was one of the richest men in the United States.

Political career

Hearst's wealth and influence gave him a voice in politics. He was elected to the California State Assembly in 1873. In 1886, he was elected to the U.S. Senate. Hearst served in the Senate for 12 years. He was a powerful advocate for the mining industry and for the development of the West.

Hearst was a controversial figure. He was accused of corruption and of using his wealth to influence elections. Despite the scandals, Hearst remained a popular figure in California. He was known for his generosity and for his support of education and the arts.

Personal life

Hearst was married twice. His first wife, Phoebe Apperson, died in 1878. In 1887, Hearst married Mary Ellen Pleasant. Pleasant was a wealthy African American widow. Their marriage was controversial, but it was also a happy one. Hearst and Pleasant had five children together.

Hearst was a complex and fascinating man. He was a self-made millionaire who built a business empire from scratch. He was also a powerful political figure who played a major role in the development of the United States. Hearst's life is a story of ambition, success, and scandal.

Legacy

Hearst's legacy is mixed. He was a ruthless businessman who exploited his workers and used his wealth to influence elections. However, he was also a generous philanthropist who supported education and the arts. Hearst's most famous legacy is Hearst Castle, the opulent mansion he built in San Simeon, California.

Hearst Castle is a testament to Hearst's wealth and power. It is also a beautiful work of art. The castle is visited by millions of tourists each year. It is a reminder of the Gilded Age, a time of great wealth and inequality. Hearst Castle is also a reminder of George Hearst, the silver king of the Gilded Age.