The Inspiring and Insightful Life of an American LegendLike a mirror of the young America he thrived in Stephan Girard 17501831 displayed inexhaustible initiative courage tenacity foresight and compassion. Reflecting his creed of valuing deeds over words he was in many ways the American Dream personified. George Wilson a former columnist and editorial writer for The Philadelphia Inquirer presents the inspiring true story of Girards epic journey from ship captain to mercantilist to philanthropista genuine ragstoriches tale in which Girard became one of the wealthiest Americans of all time.ampampnbspBorn to a French sea captain the selfeducated Girard went to sea as a cabin boy on a merchant vessel when he was just 14.