Carlos Slim Helú was born on January 28, 1940, in Mexico City, Mexico. He was the son of Julián Slim Haddad, a Maronite Catholic of Lebanese descent, and Doña Linda Helú, a Mexican of Lebanese descent. From a young age, Slim showed an aptitude for business and entrepreneurship, working alongside his father in his real estate and retail businesses.
After graduating from the National Autonomous University of Mexico with a degree in civil engineering, Slim went on to pursue further studies in business administration. He also taught algebra and linear programming at the university, honing his analytical and problem-solving skills.
Armed with his education and experience, Slim began to build his business empire. He acquired struggling companies and turned them around through smart investments and strategic management. In 1965, he founded Inversora Bursátil, a brokerage firm that would serve as the foundation for his future success.
Over the years, Slim acquired numerous Mexican companies through his conglomerate Grupo Carso, which became known for its diverse holdings in industries such as telecommunications, retail, and construction. One of his most notable acquisitions was Telmex, Mexico's largest telecommunications company, which he transformed into a monopoly in the Mexican market.
Despite his immense wealth, Slim is known for his philanthropic efforts. He founded the Carlos Slim Foundation, which focuses on education, healthcare, and social development in Mexico and other Latin American countries. He has also donated billions of dollars to various causes, including poverty alleviation, cultural preservation, and medical research.
In addition to his philanthropic work, Slim's legacy extends to his family life. He was married to Soumaya Domit from 1967 until her death in 1999, and together they had six children. Slim's children have followed in his footsteps, taking on leadership roles in his companies and continuing his legacy of business success and philanthropy.
At his peak, Slim was named the richest person in the world by Forbes magazine for several years, surpassing even tech moguls like Bill Gates. His influence extended beyond Mexico, as his investments in countries around the world made him a global business magnate.
Though his wealth has fluctuated over the years due to economic changes and market conditions, Slim remains a formidable figure in the business world. His strategic investments and commitment to innovation have solidified his reputation as one of the most successful entrepreneurs of his generation.
In conclusion, Carlos Slim's life story is a testament to the power of vision, hard work, and determination. From humble beginnings to global success, Slim has left an indelible mark on the business world and the lives of countless individuals through his philanthropy and leadership.