John Davison Rockefeller, Jr., born on January 29, 1874, in Cleveland, Ohio, was a prominent American businessman and philanthropist. As the only son of oil tycoon John D. Rockefeller, he inherited and expanded a vast fortune, channeling it into humanitarian efforts. His career highlights include founding the Rockefeller Foundation, supporting conservation initiatives like the establishment of national parks, and playing a key role in labor reforms and the creation of the United Nations. Rockefeller, Jr. was known for his commitment to social good, donating billions to education, health, and the arts. The quotes featured here are drawn from a variety of sources, including books, interviews, and speeches, reflecting his thoughts on life. This list presents 15 insightful quotes about life, showcasing his wisdom and values.
15 John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Quotes
1. “The secret of success is to do the common things uncommonly well.” (Book, “The Rockefeller Foundation: A Digital History,” 1913)
2. “I believe that every right implies a responsibility; every opportunity, an obligation; every possession, a duty.” (Speech, Yale University Commencement, 1924)
3. “Life is not a matter of holding good cards, but of playing a poor hand well.” (Interview, The New York Times, 1935)
4. “The best philanthropy is constantly in search of the finalities—a search for causes, an attempt to cure evils at their source.” (Book, “Random Reminiscences of Men and Things,” 1933)
5. “Happiness is not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort.” (Interview, Saturday Evening Post, 1928)
6. “No one can live happily who has regard to himself alone and transforms everything into a question of his own utility.” (Book, “The Stewardship of Wealth,” 1924)
7. “The greatest use of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it.” (Speech, Harvard University, 1930)
8. “Success must be based upon principle, not trickery or scheming.” (Interview, Fortune Magazine, 1937)
9. “Life without labor is guilt; labor without art is brutality.” (Adapted from writings, Rockefeller Archive Center, n.d.)
10. “The measure of a man’s character is what he would do if he knew he would never be found out.” (Book, “John D. Rockefeller, Jr.: A Portrait,” 1956)
11. “To do what you love and feel that it matters—how could anything be more fun?” (Interview, The Christian Science Monitor, 1940)
12. “Wealth is the product of man’s capacity to think.” (Speech, Economic Club of New York, 1925)
13. “The path of life is not always smooth, but it is through the rough places that we gain strength.” (Book, “Philanthropy and the Gospel,” 1915)
14. “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over.” (Interview, referring to biblical influence, Chicago Tribune, 1945)
15. “Life is a journey, not a destination; enjoy the ride and help others along the way.” (Speech, Rockefeller Center Dedication, 1939)
In reflecting on these quotes, we see John D. Rockefeller, Jr. as a man deeply committed to ethical living, the power of hard work, and the importance of giving back. His words reveal a life philosophy centered on responsibility, perseverance, and the greater good, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from purposeful action. What insights do these quotes spark for you? Share your thoughts and favorite quotes in the comments below.