Contributor: Brian Anthony. Lesson ID: 12302
The Greek word philanthropist means lover of humans. One way to show love is to share what you have with the needy. Read how early billionaires used their money for charity!
If you turn on the television or open a magazine, you will likely come across an ad asking for a donation.
It might be a charity that helps the homeless, or that gives health services, or promotes better reading habits. There are many opportunities to give money to important causes. It helps other people and it makes you feel good!
People with more money — the super-rich — have the opportunity to do even greater good.
As you read more about this kind of charity in What Is Philanthropy? Examples, History, Benefits, and Types, write down the answers to the following questions.
Work through the reading to collect your information. Then, reflect on these questions.
Some of the richest people in American history have also been some of the most generous.
In the Got It? section, explore the lives of some of the great philanthropists, and find out how they used their money to make the world a better place.