Benjamin Graham, born on August 5, 1894 in London, England, moved to New York City at a young age where he spent most of his childhood. His parents instilled in him the value of hard work and perseverance, traits that would serve him well throughout his life.
After graduating from Columbia University, Graham was offered a teaching position but decided to pursue a career on Wall Street instead. It was here that he first began to form his ideas about value investing, a philosophy that would later become his legacy.
Graham's most well-known work, co-authored with David Dodd in 1934, is the seminal book Security Analysis. This book is often referred to as the investors' bible and laid the foundation for the value investment paradigm. Graham's teachings at Columbia University's business school in the late 1920s helped to shape the minds of countless future investors.
Benjamin Graham's impact on the investing world cannot be overstated. His principles of value investing have been adopted by some of the most successful investors in history, including his one-time student Warren Buffett. The Intelligent Investor, published in 1949, remains a must-read for anyone looking to navigate the complex world of investing.
Despite his professional success, Graham faced challenges in his personal life. His marriage to Estey Graham ended in tragedy when his child passed away, leading to a rift between them. Graham later became involved romantically with Marie Louise Amingues, his deceased child's former lover.
Graham was not only a pioneer in the world of investing but also made significant contributions to both United States and international economic policy. His insights and expertise were highly regarded by policymakers and economists alike.
Benjamin Graham passed away on September 21, 1976, leaving behind a lasting legacy that continues to influence investors around the world. His timeless wisdom and innovative approach to investing have cemented his place as one of the most influential figures in the history of finance.