J.P. Morgan: Banking Titan in 1915 Portrait

This photograph features J.P. Morgan, one of the most influential bankers in American history, taken on May 10, 1915. As a key figure in the finance and industrial sectors, Morgan played a pivotal role in the development of the United States economy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He founded J.P. Morgan & Co. and was instrumental in orchestrating major mergers and acquisitions, including the consolidation of several major railroads and the creation of U.S. Steel, the first billion-dollar corporation in the world.

Morgan’s impact went beyond finance; he was a major player in shaping the American economy during a time of rapid industrial growth. His ability to mobilize capital helped to stabilize financial markets, especially during crises such as the Panic of 1907. The photograph captures a moment in the life of a man who not only influenced business practices but also wielded significant power in political and social circles. Understanding figures like Morgan helps to paint a clearer picture of the forces that shaped modern America.