Robert Kenneth Kraft was born on June 5, 1941, in Brookline, Massachusetts. He grew up in a middle-class Jewish family and attended Columbia University on a scholarship, where he was a member of the Zeta Beta Tau fraternity. After graduating from Columbia, Kraft went on to earn his MBA from Harvard Business School in 1965.
After completing his education, Kraft started his career in business and quickly made a name for himself as a successful entrepreneur. He founded the Kraft Group, a multifaceted company with interests in professional sports, real estate, manufacturing, and venture capital.
In 1985, Kraft made a significant move by purchasing the New England Patriots, a struggling NFL franchise at the time. Under his leadership, the team experienced a turnaround and achieved great success, winning multiple Super Bowl titles. Kraft's hands-on approach and deep investment in the team's success were credited with transforming the Patriots into a perennial powerhouse.
Aside from his involvement in sports, Kraft is known for his philanthropic efforts and support of various charitable causes. He has donated generously to organizations focused on education, healthcare, and the arts. Additionally, Kraft has invested in and supported businesses across a range of industries, further diversifying his portfolio.
Kraft was married to his wife, Myra Nathalie Hiatt, with whom he had three children. Tragically, Hiatt passed away in 2011, leaving Kraft to navigate the challenges of grief and loss while continuing to manage his professional responsibilities.
Robert Kraft's legacy is one of resilience, innovation, and commitment to excellence. His impact on the world of sports, business, and philanthropy is undeniable, and his contributions will be remembered for generations to come.