Matthew Josephson
American historian and biographer (1899–1978)
Matthew Josephson was a prominent American historian and biographer, active in the field of history throughout his career. Born in 1899, he went on to establish himself as a notable author, producing works that explored the lives and contributions of French novelists of the 19th century. His writings also delved into the realms of U.S. political and economic history, focusing on the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Josephson's most notable contribution to historical literature came in 1934 with the publication of his book, The Robber Barons. This seminal work not only shed light on the lives of the first American tycoons but also popularized the term "robber baron," which has since become a staple in descriptions of early American industrialists. Through his writings, Josephson left an indelible mark on the field of history, and his work continues to be relevant until his death in 1978.