"Peter Cooper" by Rossiter W. Raymond is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This biography explores the life of Peter Cooper, an influential American industrialist, inventor, and philanthropist, focusing on his contributions to society and the educational opportunities he sought to provide for the working class. The book delves into Cooper's early life, his various business ventures, and his significant posthumous legacy through institutions like the Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art. The opening of the text offers insight into Peter Cooper's ancestry and his upbringing during a time of rapid change in America. We learn about his family background, particularly his father’s military service during the Revolutionary War, and how these familial influences instilled in Cooper a sense of ambition and purpose. Additionally, the early chapters describe his adventurous and industrious youth, highlighting his early inventions and work experiences that shaped his character and set the stage for his later achievements. The author indicates that Cooper's life was marked by a continuous pursuit of knowledge and a desire to uplift his fellow citizens, establishing the foundational themes that will be explored throughout the biography. (This is an automatically generated summary.)