Date of Birth: January 13, 1832
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Date of Death: July 18, 1899
Biography
Horatio Alger Jr. was an American author best known for his young adult novels about impoverished boys and their rise from humble backgrounds to lives of middle-class security and comfort through hard work, determination, courage, and honesty. Born in Chelsea, Massachusetts, Alger started his career as a minister but soon turned to writing after his career in the church ended abruptly. He is best remembered for his series of “rags to riches” stories which were immensely popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His most famous work, “Ragged Dick,” published in 1867, set the template for many of his future novels. Alger moved to New York City in 1866 and immersed himself in the lives of the street boys, using their stories as inspiration for his novels. Despite facing personal and financial difficulties throughout his life, Alger’s legacy endures as a symbol of the American Dream.
5 Interesting Facts about Horatio Alger
1. Horatio Alger Jr. wrote over 100 novels in his lifetime.
2. His writing significantly influenced American culture, especially the ethos of the American Dream.
3. Alger’s works were initially serialized in magazines before being published as full-length novels.
4. He was a Harvard graduate, having completed his degree in 1852.
5. Alger’s father was a Unitarian minister, which influenced his early career choice.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Horatio Alger
1. “Thus was he left a homeless, friendless boy in the streets of New York.”
2. “The world steps aside to let any man pass who knows where he is going.”
3. “Energy and persistence conquer all things.”
4. “I’m resolved to do something and to be somebody.”
5. “I don’t care about riches, such as any man may gain; but I would like a comfortable home, and some money in the bank for a rainy day.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Horatio Alger Jr.’s highest net worth, adjusted for inflation, is estimated to have been around $1 million.
Children
Horatio Alger Jr. did not have any children.
Relevant Links
2. [Horatio Alger Jr. – American Literature](https://americanliterature.com/author/horatio-alger-jr
3. [Horatio Alger – The Horatio Alger Society](http://www.horatioalgersociety.net/
4. [Ragged Dick – Project Gutenberg](https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/5348
5. [Horatio Alger – Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2168.Horatio_Alger_Jr_
