Charles E. Wilson

Date of Birth: July 18, 1890

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: September 26, 1961

Biography

Charles Erwin Wilson, often known as “Engine Charlie,” was a prominent American businessman and government official who made significant contributions to the automotive industry and served as the United States Secretary of Defense. Born in Minerva, Ohio, Wilson began his career in the electrical engineering field before joining General Motors (GM) in 1939. He rapidly ascended the corporate ladder, becoming the president of GM in 1941 and later serving as its CEO. Under his leadership, GM experienced substantial growth and innovation, solidifying its position as one of the leading automobile manufacturers in the world. In 1953, Wilson was appointed as Secretary of Defense by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. His tenure was marked by efforts to streamline military spending and improve efficiency within the Department of Defense. One of his most famous statements, made during his confirmation hearings, was that he believed what was good for the country was good for General Motors, and vice versa—a remark that has often been paraphrased and misinterpreted over the years. After leaving public office in 1957, Wilson continued to be an influential figure in both the corporate world and public policy until his retirement. He passed away on September 26, 1961, leaving behind a lasting legacy in both the private and public sectors.

5 Interesting Facts about Charles E. Wilson

1. Charles E. Wilson was a trained electrical engineer, having earned his degree from Carnegie Institute of Technology (now Carnegie Mellon University).

2. He played a crucial role in the development of the electrical and automotive divisions of General Motors.

3. Wilson was instrumental in the expansion of GM’s overseas operations, particularly in Europe and South America.

4. During World War II, he led GM in converting its car production facilities to produce military equipment.

5. He was awarded the Medal for Merit in 1946 for his contributions to the war effort.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Charles E. Wilson

1. “What’s good for General Motors is good for the country.”

2. “The price of progress is trouble, and I must be making a lot of progress.”

3. “A corporation’s primary responsibility is to its shareholders.”

4. “Efficiency is doing better what is already being done.”

5. “Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Charles E. Wilson’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million, a substantial amount during his time.

Children

Charles E. Wilson had two children, Charles Erwin Wilson Jr. and Mary Alice Wilson. Both children were actively involved in various philanthropic activities and maintained a low profile compared to their father’s public life.