Bernard Baruch

Date of Birth: August 19, 1870

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: June 20, 1965

Biography

Bernard Mannes Baruch was an influential American financier, stock market speculator, statesman, and political consultant. Born into a Jewish family in South Carolina, Baruch rose to prominence through his keen investment strategies and his adeptness in financial matters. He attended the City College of New York and, after graduating, began his career in finance. By the age of 30, he had become a millionaire through his investments in the New York Stock Exchange. Baruch gained national attention during World War I when he served as the chairman of the War Industries Board, playing a crucial role in managing the U.S. economy during the war. He continued to be an influential figure in political and economic circles, advising numerous U.S. presidents, including Woodrow Wilson and Franklin D. Roosevelt. Baruch was known for his public service and philanthropy, contributing significantly to education and medical research. He passed away in 1965, leaving behind a legacy as one of America’s most important economic advisers and philanthropists.

5 Interesting Facts about Bernard Baruch

1. Baruch was a key economic adviser to President Woodrow Wilson during World War I.

2. He coined the term “Cold War” to describe the post-World War II geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and the Soviet Union.

3. Baruch was an advocate for the establishment of a global atomic energy agency and proposed the Baruch Plan for international control of atomic energy.

4. He was often seen sitting on a park bench in Lafayette Park across from the White House, where he would conduct informal meetings.

5. Baruch was a philanthropist who donated large sums to educational and medical institutions, including the Baruch College of the City University of New York.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Bernard Baruch

1. “Every man has a right to be wrong in his opinions. But no man has a right to be wrong in his facts.”

2. “In the last analysis, our only freedom is the freedom to discipline ourselves.”

3. “You can overcome anything if you don’t bellyache.”

4. “Millions saw the apple fall, but Newton was the one who asked why.”

5. “If you get all the facts, your judgment can be right; if you don’t get all the facts, it can’t be right.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At his peak, Bernard Baruch’s net worth was estimated to be around $100 million, a significant sum for his time.

Children

Bernard Baruch had three children: Belle Baruch, Renee Baruch, and Bernard Baruch Jr. Belle was known for her contributions to wildlife conservation and horse training, while Bernard Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps in finance and public service.