1908-
Philanthropist; Publisher; Diplomat

The Key to Leadership.

The 1990s provided Walter H. Annenberg the opportunity to contribute to one of the most fundamental causes he supported throughout his life — education. Long a financial supporter of various colleges and universities, Annenberg turned his eye to America's public schools with an unprecedented gift of $500 million. His shift in focus underscored his belief that education is what "holds civilization together," and that kindergarten through twelfth grade is where children grow intellectually and develop character and where our attentions must dwell. His 1993 announcement of matching grants to improve education in public schools was Annenberg's effort in turning attention to what he considered a national security issue: eleven-year- olds shooting each other was a nightmare for this country's future.

Resources.

Walter Annenberg spent the better part of his adult life rebuilding the family fortune after his father was...