The Self-Made Man

10/23/2014

This article delves into the concept of the "self-made man" and traces its historical roots from figures like Benjamin Franklin to Andrew Carnegie. It examines how this myth of the self-made man, someone who achieves success solely through their own hard work and determination, has been an enduring ideal in American society. The author explores the social and cultural factors that have contributed to the popularity of this myth, such as the American Dream and the belief in upward mobility. The article also analyzes the limitations and criticisms of the self-made man myth, highlighting the importance of recognizing the role of privilege and societal factors in individual success.

self-made man ꞏ american dream ꞏ rags to riches ꞏ success ꞏ perseverance ꞏ entrepreneurship ꞏ bootstrap myth ꞏ horatio alger ꞏ benjamin franklin ꞏ andrew carnegie ꞏ upward mobility ꞏ social mobility ꞏ meritocracy ꞏ individualism ꞏ personal achievement ꞏ wealth accumulation ꞏ capitalism ꞏ cultural ideals ꞏ myth ꞏ social class ꞏ historical figures ꞏ economic history ꞏ american history ꞏ social narrative ꞏ social status ꞏ social stratification ꞏ socioeconomic achievement ꞏ american values ꞏ social progress ꞏ social construct ꞏ cultural mythology ꞏ cultural narrative ꞏ social norms ꞏ social expectations ꞏ self-improvement ꞏ success stories ꞏ wealth creation ꞏ iconic figures ꞏ cultural icons ꞏ american society