Seizing the opportunity, a young entrepreneur named John D. Rockefeller borrowed at least $1,000 to start a small oil refinery amid production inefficiencies in Cleveland, Ohio. His venture required significant capital and a deal with distribution magnate Cornelius Vanderbilt, who, recognizing the burgeoning oil industry’s potential, partnered with Rockefeller for oil distribution.

Seizing the opportunity, a young entrepreneur named John D. Rockefeller borrowed at least $1,000 to start a small oil refinery amid production inefficiencies in Cleveland, Ohio. His venture required significant capital and a deal with distribution magnate Cornelius Vanderbilt, who, recognizing the burgeoning oil industry’s potential, partnered with Rockefeller for oil distribution.