Final answer:
Andrew Carnegie was a steel magnate known for his 'Gospel of Wealth' philosophy, advocating the role of the wealthy as benefactors to society, similar to the rags-to-riches story of Jay Gatsby but with a significant focus on philanthropy and social responsibility.
Step-by-step explanation:
Andrew Carnegie, best known as a steel magnate and one of the wealthiest men of his time, shared with characters like Jay Gatsby from F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby' the quintessential rags-to-riches narrative common in American mythology. However, Carnegie differed significantly in his philosophy on wealth and its uses. His Gospel of Wealth conveyed a responsibility that the wealthy had to society, a duty to use their fortunes for the common good - establishing universities, libraries, and other public institutions. Like the narrative in 'The Great Gatsby,' Carnegie's life was a complex blend of self-made success and profound awareness of societal obligation.
Andrew Carnegie's view on the role of the wealthy was that they should serve as stewards of their fortunes, enriching society through philanthropy. This contrasted with the oftentimes vain and self-serving portrayal of wealth in 'The Great Gatsby.' Carnegie emphasized a part of the American identity that champions hard work and ingenuity but also underscores a commitment to enhance public life through charitable acts.
However, his approach to wealth and labor was not without criticism, as highlighted by the political cartoon caption 'FORTY-MILLIONAIRE CARNEGIE IN HIS GREAT DOUBLE ROLE,' which depicted him as a tight-fisted employer reducing wages to fund his philanthropic endeavors.