John D. Rockefeller, one of America's most prominent business magnates, passed away on May 23, 1937 at the age of 97. Beyond his immense wealth and business acumen, he is remembered as a philanthropist who donated vast sums of his fortune toward charitable causes, including education and medical research. Rockefeller made his fortune in the oil industry, founding Standard Oil Company in 1870. His business practices were sometimes controversial, and the company ultimately faced antitrust lawsuits that led to its dissolution in 1911. However, Rockefeller's impact on American industry and society cannot be understated. Under his leadership, Standard Oil became the largest oil refinery in the world, and Rockefeller himself was the richest man in America at the turn of the 20th century. However, Rockefeller's wealth was not simply for personal gain. In fact, he famously believed that "the ability to make money is a gift from God" and felt a sense of responsibility to use his wealth to benefit society. He donated more than $500 million - equivalent to billions of dollars today - during his lifetime, most notably to establish the Rockefeller Foundation, which continues to support scientific research and public health initiatives around the world. In his later years, Rockefeller remained active in philanthropy and continued to enjoy good health and a sharp mind. He even celebrated his 90th birthday by playing golf and cutting down trees on his estate in Pocantico Hills, New York. Upon his death, he left behind a legacy as a titan of American industry and a model of charitable giving. John D. Rockefeller's life and legacy remind us of the power of enterprise and the importance of using our resources to make a positive impact on the world. While his business practices may have been controversial, his commitment to philanthropy and his belief in the responsibility of the wealthy to give back continue to inspire future generations.