An Heir, a $25 Million Giveaway and 30,000 Unopened Letters

The New York Times (NYT) (04/27/2022)
  • In January 1970, 21-year old heir Michael Brody gained notoriety after announcing he was giving away his entire $25M fortune.
  • Brody appeared on major newspapers and on “The Ed Sullivan Show” saying he wanted to spread love.
  • He received letters from thousands of Americans, a time capsule of the health issues, financial difficulties and business aspirations of the time.
  • Brody’s few checks bounced then he despised requests (died in 1973).
  • Columbia University curators have 30,000 unopened letters Brody received; his son has another 100,000.