Analyzing "The Gospel of Wealth"

Scottish-American entrepreneur and philanthropist, Andrew Carnegie, became one of the world’s richest people by expanding his steel business in the late 1800s. At a time when the wealth gap in America was severe, Carnegie encouraged wealthy people to give back in order to help their communities, a practice he himself became famous for doing. His opinions about wealth are recorded in “The Gospel of Wealth” which Carnegie wrote in 1889. 

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Analyzing "The Gospel of Wealth"
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Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

The student will:

  • Research and share background knowledge about Andrew Carnegie
  • Analyze excerpts from “The Gospel of Wealth”
  • Integrate Carnegie’s ideas into the context of the Progressive Era
  • Participate in a class discussion applying Carnegie’s ideas to society today
Essential and guiding questions: 
  • What responsibility, if any, do the wealthy have to the rest of society? 
  • What can “The Gospel of Wealth” tell us about Andrew Carnegie and his views on wealth?  

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Applying
Extension suggestions: 

Have your students choose a modern-day organization or charity to research. Ask them to determine its origins, leaders, purpose, goals, and from where they receive funding. Consider hosting a bake sale or collecting donations to give back. Students could then create a presentation to share their experience with the class. 

Helpful Hints

Materials:

  • “The Gospel of Wealth” excerpt, Pg. 1-2
  • Post-its