The Inside Story of Carnegie Steel

By James Bridge

A compelling and controversial insider’s account of the historic power struggles behind Carnegie Steel and the creation of U.S. Steel.

The Birth of a Steel Empire

This book, originally published in 1903, details the high-stakes conflict between Andrew Carnegie and Henry Clay Frick—two titans of American industry whose partnership helped define modern capitalism but ultimately ended in bitter discord.

The Frick-Carnegie Rift

James Bridge, once Carnegie’s personal secretary, sheds light on the brutal corporate infighting, power plays, and business maneuvers that led to the infamous breakup of their alliance and the eventual formation of U.S. Steel under the control of J.P. Morgan.

Key Themes Explored

• Industrial Expansion: The rise of Carnegie Steel and its dominance in the steel industry.
• Corporate Betrayal: How personal and professional rivalries shaped America’s business landscape.
• Power Struggles: The final showdown between Frick and Carnegie.
• Inside the Boardroom: A rare look at the inner workings of a 19th-century industrial empire.

A Groundbreaking Account

Bridge’s book sparked controversy upon its release, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at the era’s most influential business figures. His detailed, journalistic approach provides an unfiltered glimpse into the cutthroat world of industrial America.

For historians, business professionals, and anyone fascinated by the legacy of American industry, The Inside Story of Carnegie Steel is an essential read.