T. Boone Pickens

Easton Press T. Boone Pickens books

The First Billion is the Hardest - signed first edition - 2008

T. Boone Pickens biography

Thomas Boone Pickens, born on May 22, 1928, in Holdenville, Oklahoma, was an American business magnate, financier, and philanthropist known for his entrepreneurial spirit, bold vision, and innovative approach to energy investment. Throughout his prolific career, Pickens left an indelible mark on the business world and became one of the most influential figures in the energy industry. Raised during the Great Depression in the oil-rich state of Oklahoma, Pickens developed a keen interest in the energy sector from a young age. After studying geology at Oklahoma A&M College (now Oklahoma State University), he began his career as a geologist for Phillips Petroleum, gaining valuable experience in the oil and gas industry.

In 1956, Pickens struck out on his own and founded his first company, Mesa Petroleum, with a focus on oil and gas exploration and production. Over the years, he built Mesa into one of the largest independent oil companies in the United States, earning a reputation as a savvy investor and shrewd dealmaker. Pickens' most famous and controversial business venture came in the 1980s when he launched a series of hostile takeover attempts against major oil companies, including Gulf Oil, Phillips Petroleum, and Unocal Corporation. Although these efforts ultimately proved unsuccessful, they garnered widespread attention and solidified Pickens' reputation as a corporate raider and maverick in the business world.

In the late 1990s, Pickens shifted his focus to renewable energy and became a vocal advocate for reducing America's dependence on foreign oil. He founded BP Capital Management, a hedge fund specializing in energy investments, and launched the Pickens Plan, a comprehensive strategy to boost domestic energy production and invest in renewable sources such as wind and solar power.

Throughout his career, Pickens was also known for his philanthropy and commitment to giving back to the community. He donated millions of dollars to various causes, including education, healthcare, and veterans' affairs, and established the T. Boone Pickens Foundation to support charitable initiatives across the United States. In addition to his business and philanthropic endeavors, Pickens was a prolific author and speaker, sharing his insights and wisdom with audiences around the world. His autobiography, The First Billion Is the Hardest, chronicles his remarkable life and career, offering valuable lessons in leadership, perseverance, and the pursuit of success. T. Boone Pickens passed away on September 11, 2019, at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. His contributions to the energy industry and his tireless efforts to promote renewable energy and environmental sustainability continue to inspire future generations of business leaders and environmentalists alike.