Peter Cooper

Date of Birth: February 12, 1791

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: April 4, 1883

Biography

Peter Cooper was an American industrialist, inventor, philanthropist, and politician who was born in New York City. He is best known for designing and building the first American steam locomotive, the “Tom Thumb,” which significantly contributed to the development of the American railroad system. Cooper was also a successful businessman and founded the Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in New York City, which offered free education to working-class citizens. His contributions to American industry and education have left a lasting legacy.

5 Interesting Facts about Peter Cooper

1. Peter Cooper invented the “Tom Thumb,” the first American-built steam locomotive.

2. He founded the Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in 1859, which still operates today.

3. Cooper was a candidate for President of the United States in the 1876 election.

4. He held numerous patents, including one for a gelatin dessert, which later became known as “Jell-O.”

5. Cooper was also involved in the telegraph industry and helped fund the laying of the first transatlantic telegraph cable.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Peter Cooper

1. “A man’s value to the community depends primarily on how far his feelings, thoughts, and actions are concerned with the welfare of others.”

2. “I have always recognized that the object of business is to make money in an honorable manner.”

3. “There is no man that has come up from poverty who does not know that the greatest blessing in life is to be kind-hearted and useful to others.”

4. “Education is the key to unlock the golden door of freedom.”

5. “I have endeavored to remember that the object of life is to do good.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Peter Cooper’s highest net worth is estimated to have been around $6 million at the time of his death in 1883, which would be equivalent to approximately $150 million today when adjusted for inflation.

Children

Peter Cooper had two children: 1. Edward Cooper (1824–1905) – He became the mayor of New York City. 2. Sarah Amelia Cooper Hewitt (1830–1912) – She was a philanthropist and married Abram Hewitt, who also served as the mayor of New York City.