George Soros is one of the most influential figures in global finance and philanthropy. Born on August 12, 1930, in Budapest, Hungary, Soros has built a remarkable career, known for his financial acumen and his commitment to open society ideals.
His Jewish family survived the Nazi occupation of Hungary during World War II by hiding their identities. This harrowing experience shaped his worldview.
He attended the London School of Economics, where he studied under philosopher Karl Popper, whose ideas about open societies deeply influenced Soros.
In 1970, Soros founded the Quantum Fund, which became one of the most successful hedge funds in history. His most famous trade came in 1992 when he "broke the Bank of England," earning $1 billion by shorting the British pound.
He established the Open Society Foundations in 1979, dedicated to promoting human rights, democracy, and government transparency. Over the decades, he has donated more than $32 billion to these causes.
Soros has faced political and media backlash, particularly from far-right groups. His funding of progressive causes has made him a polarizing figure in many countries.
Despite controversies, Soros remains a powerful advocate for open societies and democratic governance, leaving a profound impact on global finance and philanthropy.
From financial markets to human rights advocacy, Soros' life is a testament to using wealth for both profit and progress.