Howard Hughes

Date of Birth: December 24, 1905

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: April 5, 1976

Biography

Howard Robard Hughes Jr. was an American business magnate, investor, record-setting pilot, engineer, film director, and philanthropist. Born on December 24, 1905, in Houston, Texas, Hughes was the son of Howard R. Hughes Sr., a successful inventor and founder of the Hughes Tool Company. After inheriting his father’s company at the age of 19, Hughes expanded the business into various fields including aviation and entertainment. Hughes made significant contributions to the aviation industry, setting multiple world records and developing cutting-edge aircraft through his company, Hughes Aircraft. He also ventured into Hollywood, where he produced and directed several films, including the controversial and financially successful “Hell’s Angels” (1930). His film “The Outlaw” (1943) faced significant censorship challenges but went on to become a box-office hit. Later in life, Hughes became known for his reclusive and eccentric behavior, fueled by obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and chronic pain from multiple plane crashes. Despite his reclusiveness, he managed to amass a considerable fortune, making him one of the wealthiest individuals of his time. Hughes passed away on April 5, 1976, while en route to Houston from his residence in Acapulco, Mexico. His legacy lives on through his contributions to aviation, film, and business.

5 Interesting Facts about Howard Hughes

1. Howard Hughes set a world record in 1938 by flying around the world in just 91 hours.

2. He produced and directed the 1930 film “Hell’s Angels,” which was one of the most expensive films of its time.

3. Hughes was known for his reclusive lifestyle in his later years, often staying in darkened rooms and avoiding public appearances.

4. He founded Hughes Aircraft Company, which became a major defense contractor and innovator in aerospace technology.

5. Hughes was a major real estate investor, including the development of the Las Vegas Strip.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Howard Hughes

1. “Do the impossible, because almost everyone has told me my ideas are merely fantasies.”

2. “I’m not a paranoid deranged millionaire. Goddamit, I’m a billionaire.”

3. “Money can’t buy happiness, but it can make you awfully comfortable while you’re being miserable.”

4. “Passion will make you crazy, but is there any other way to live?”

5. “I intend to be, the richest man in the world.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At his peak, Howard Hughes’ net worth was estimated to be around $1.5 billion in 1974, which is roughly equivalent to over $6 billion today when adjusted for inflation.