Comment Re:But who's going to support the welfare state? (Score 1) 338
John D. Rockefeller basally created the modern petroleum industry, dramatically advancing technology, and reducing the price of oil for customers.
Cornelius Vanderbilt was an early steamboat and shipping entrepreneur, and dramatically improved the operation of railroad lines into New York City.
Andrew Carnegie greatly enlarged the US steel industry, including the first serious of the Bessemer process. Personally, Carnegie was a leader in the American Anti-Imperialist League, in opposition to the U.S. annexation of the Philippines. He also gave away 90% of his wealth to philanthropies.
All three of these men created companies that enhanced the lives of consumers.