In 'John Jacob Astor,' Elbert Hubbard charts the extraordinary rise of the eponymous German immigrant turned American magnate, tracing his journey from modest beginnings to his status as one of the wealthiest men of his time. Hubbard's prose is as meticulous as it is engrossing, weaving a narrative that is both a testament to the American Dream and a penetrating study of capitalism's early days. The text is replete with the historical and economic contexts of the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of Astor's business acumen within the nascent landscape of American enterprise.Elbert Hubbard's own journey as an author and philosopher undeniably informed his exploration of John Jacob Astor's life. A self-made man, Hubbard is known for his insightful and thought-provoking works that often emphasize the power of individual initiative and industriousness. His background in commerce, beginning with his time as a traveling salesman and culminating in his role as publisher and artist, lent him a unique perspective on Astor's entrepreneurial spirit and achievements.'John Jacob Astor' comes highly recommended to those fascinated by American history, economic development, and the tales of self-made individuals. Hubbard's eloquent storytelling brings Astor's world to life, making this book a valuable resource not only for scholars of historical and economic studies but also for anyone seeking inspiration from one of America's first titans of industry.

Elbert Hubbard (1856-1915) was an influential American writer, publisher, artist, and philosopher, renowned for his significant contributions to the Arts and Crafts movement and his promotion of the philosophy of individualism and entrepreneurship. As an exceptionally prolific writer, Hubbard founded the Roycroft artisan community in East Aurora, New York, which became a hub for craftsmanship and intellectual activity. His written works cover various topics, including biographies, philosophy, and social commentary, and often reflect his idiosyncratic blend of wit and wisdom. One of Hubbard's noted works includes 'John Jacob Astor' (1891), a short biography that chronicles the life of the famous American businessman and millionaire, emphasizing Hubbard's interest in self-made success and the potential of personal ambition. His literary style is marked by directness, colloquial energy, and an aphoristic quality that has made his writings enduringly popular. He was also the author of 'A Message to Garcia' (1899), a manifesto on initiative and work ethic that gained worldwide fame. Hubbard's life and career tragically ended when he perished aboard the RMS Lusitania, sunk by a German submarine in 1915, enshrining him as a notable figure not only in American literature but also in history.