Captain of industry

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In the 19th century, a captain of industry was a business leader whose means of amassing a personal fortune contributed positively to the country in some way. This may have been through increased productivity, expansion of markets, providing more jobs, or acts of philanthropy.[2] This characterization contrasts with that of the robber baron, a business leader using political means to achieve personal ends.

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Joseph Whitworth, whom Carlyle lauded as an exemplary captain of industry[1]