Sheldon Adelson was born on April 8, 1933, in Boston, Massachusetts. He grew up in a working-class family, and from a young age, he showed an entrepreneurial spirit. Adelson started his first business selling newspapers at the age of 12 and went on to try his hand at various ventures throughout his youth.
Adelson's big break came when he purchased the Sands Casino in Las Vegas. This acquisition marked the beginning of his rise in the casino industry. He later ventured into the Asian market by opening another casino in Macao, solidifying his position as a key player in the global gambling scene. With his savvy business acumen, Adelson quickly climbed up the ranks to become one of the wealthiest individuals in the United States, according to Forbes.
In addition to his success in the business world, Sheldon Adelson made a significant impact in the political arena. He was a staunch supporter of Republican candidates, notably backing Mitt Romney during the 2012 presidential election. Adelson's deep pockets allowed him to wield considerable influence in shaping political agendas.
Adelson and his wife were known for their generous donations to political causes. They famously paid $250,000 for the best seats at George W. Bush's second inauguration and were major contributors to the advocacy group Freedom's Watch, investing more than $30 million in the 2008 elections alone.
Despite his busy professional life, Adelson also had a personal side. He was married twice, first to Sandra and later to his second wife, whom he met on a blind date. Adelson had two sons, Mitchell and Gary, with whom he shared his passion for business and entrepreneurship.
Beyond his business and political endeavors, Sheldon Adelson leaves behind a lasting legacy as a prominent figure in both industries. His philanthropic efforts were also notable, with donations to various causes and organizations. Adelson's impact on the casino and gambling industry, as well as his influence in politics, will be remembered for years to come.
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