Get All Access for $5/mo

6 Quotes on Business and Life From Billionaire and 2-Time Presidential Candidate Ross Perot The philanthropist died on Tuesday at the age of 89.

By Max Maidenberg

Brooks Kraft | Getty Images

Two-time presidential candidate Ross Perot died today after a battle with leukemia.

The self-made billionaire began his career in the U.S Navy and then worked in sales at IBM. Perot started his first company, Electronic Data Systems, in 1962 with a meager $1,000 to his name. He eventually sold the company to General Motors for $2.5 billion in 1984. Perot later founded Perot Systems, another data tech service. In 1992, Perot ran as an independent candidate for the U.S. presidency, resulting in one of the most successful third-party campaigns in American history. He ran again in 1996. Also known for his philanthropic ventures, Perot extensively donated to help veterans, military and community relief efforts.

Here are some of Ross Perot's most influential quotes.

On a successful nation:

"We will not have a great country until we get rid of the hate and divisiveness and come together as a united, loving, winning team." (From a campaign speech, 1992)

On how to get ahead as a society:

"I'm unique, I am special, treat me as a human being, treat me with dignity and respect. ... Any society that operates on that fundamental principle will have a distinct advantage." (From a campaign speech, 1992)

On future debt:

"Don't we love our children as much as our parents loved us? Sure we do, we cannot spend their money." (From a Face the Nation talk, 1992)

On how to get out of debt:

"Stop the decline, stabilize it, and turn it into a growing industrial base … by making the finest products in the world" (From a Face the Nation talk, 1992)

On how to solve issues:

"Is this one were gonna talk about or do something about." (From a presidential debate, 1992)

On his roots:

"Texas born. Texas bred. When I die, I'll be Texas dead. Ha!" (From a Dallas News interview, 2016)

Max Maidenberg

Entrepreneur Staff

Editorial Intern

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Science & Technology

5 Automation Strategies Every Small Business Should Follow

It's time we make IT automation work for us: streamline processes, boost efficiency and drive growth with the right tools and strategy.

Business News

Former Steve Jobs Intern Says This Is How He Would Have Approached AI

The former intern is now the CEO of AI and data company DataStax.

Leadership

Visionaries or Vague Promises? Why Companies Fail Without Leaders Who See Beyond the Bottom Line

Visionary leaders turn bold ideas into lasting impact by building resilience, clarity and future-ready teams.

Marketing

5 Critical Mistakes to Avoid When Giving a Presentation

Are you tired of enduring dull presentations? Over the years, I have compiled a list of common presentation mistakes and how to avoid them. Here are my top five tips.

Side Hustle

'Hustling Every Day': These Friends Started a Side Hustle With $2,500 Each — It 'Snowballed' to Over $500,000 and Became a Multimillion-Dollar Brand

Paris Emily Nicholson and Saskia Teje Jenkins had a 2020 brainstorm session that led to a lucrative business.

Green Entrepreneur®

How Global Business Leaders Can Build a Sustainable Supply Chain

Businesses can build sustainable supply chains by leveraging technology to reduce environmental impact, optimize resources and track emissions while balancing operational efficiency and sustainability goals.