If you've ever picked up a copy of Forbes magazine, you owe a debt of gratitude to one man: B.C. Forbes. As the founder of one of the most respected business publications in the world, Forbes revolutionized the way we think about wealth, entrepreneurship, and success. But who was B.C. Forbes, and what inspired him to create such an iconic magazine? Let's take a closer look at his life and legacy.

The Early Years: From Scotland to America

B.C. Forbes was born on May 14, 1880, in the small town of New Deer, Scotland. He grew up in a family of modest means, and from a young age, he knew he wanted to be a journalist. After completing his education, Forbes worked as a reporter for several newspapers in Scotland and England, but he dreamed of making it big in America.

In 1904, Forbes moved to New York City with just $5 in his pocket. He worked odd jobs for a few years, including a stint as a ghostwriter for a wealthy businessman, before he landed a job as a financial writer for the Journal of Commerce. It was there that he first developed an interest in business and finance, and it set him on the path to creating his own magazine.

The Birth of Forbes: A Magazine for Entrepreneurs

In 1917, B.C. Forbes founded Forbes magazine, which he initially called Forbes: Devoted to Doers and Doings. The magazine's mission was to celebrate entrepreneurs and business leaders, and to provide practical advice and insights for those who aspired to success.

Forbes quickly became known for its in-depth profiles of wealthy individuals, including business magnates, celebrities, and politicians. But the magazine's focus was always on the people behind the headlines, and Forbes himself made a point of interviewing many of his subjects personally.

Over the years, Forbes magazine has become a trusted source of business news and analysis, covering everything from startups to global corporations. It has also spawned a number of spinoff publications, including Forbes Asia and Forbes Europe, as well as an annual list of the world's richest people.

The Legacy of B.C. Forbes: A Champion of Entrepreneurship

B.C. Forbes passed away in 1954, but his legacy lives on. Forbes magazine is still going strong, with a readership of millions and a reputation for excellence in business journalism. But Forbes's impact goes beyond just the magazine.

He was a champion of entrepreneurship, and he believed that anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, could achieve success if they worked hard and had the right mindset. He also believed in the importance of giving back, and he was involved in a number of charitable causes throughout his life.

Today, the Forbes brand is synonymous with success, wealth, and innovation. And it all started with one man's vision for a magazine that would inspire and educate entrepreneurs around the world. B.C. Forbes may have been a small-town boy from Scotland, but he ended up changing the face of business journalism forever

Hey there! I'm Chuck, the Editor-in-Chief at Local Threads. We’re on a mission to showcase founders of start-ups and help them shine and tell the world about themselves, their products, and their vision in life. We see value in the stories of big brands and their founders as well. Their success can be a source of inspiration for start-ups.