Notable Successes Except in Politics

Abstract By 1919 William Randolph Hearst had not yet realized his lifelong ambition, the illusive dream of achieving high public office, specifically that of being elected President of the United States. Despite considerable wealth, outstanding organizational skills, and exceptional talent bordering on genius, he exhibited character flaws that had thus far denied him that goal. For all of his adult life Hearst had headed one or more businesses in which employees followed his dictates without question. He alone was responsible for all corporate policies and business decisions in the Hearst media empire; he alone was accountable-and that was the way he wanted it. Upon rendering a judgment, he brooked no compromise, unless some unforeseen occurrence or event changed the dynamics of the situation. But whatever the final decision, he expected immediate compliance. As a result, every one of his business enterprises exhibited a definite egotism, a reflection of the owner’s utmost command as well as his remarkable achievements, with the Hearst name appearing repeatedly throughout the pages of his newspapers and magazines.