Peter Cooper was born in New York City, a period of immense growth and change for the burgeoning nation. His early life was marked by limited formal education, a common circumstance for many working-class families during that era. This lack of formal schooling, however, fueled his innate curiosity and resourceful nature, setting the stage for his self-taught journey of invention and innovation.

Cooper pursued a multitude of trades in his early years, reflecting his diverse skills and entrepreneurial spirit. He worked as a coachmaker's apprentice, cabinet maker, and even ran a grocery store. These experiences instilled in him a practical understanding of mechanics, commerce, and the needs of everyday people, shaping his future business endeavors.

Cooper established a successful glue and isinglass factory in New York City. This venture marked his entry into manufacturing and showcased his ability to identify a market need and capitalize on it. The glue factory thrived and was a key source of his early wealth, providing the financial foundation for his later, larger-scale industrial pursuits.

Seeing opportunities further afield, Peter Cooper invested in land in Baltimore. This property proved to be very rich in iron ore. Capitalizing on this new opportunity, Cooper then built the Canton Iron Works near Baltimore to process the ore. This would prove to be one of his most valuable business investments.

Driven by his interest in technological advancement, Cooper designed and built the 'Tom Thumb' locomotive. Although it lost its famous race against a horse-drawn carriage, the Tom Thumb was a critical proof of concept and demonstrated the viability of steam-powered rail transport in the United States, paving the way for the rapid expansion of railroads.

Cooper moved and consolidated operations to Trenton, New Jersey, forming the Trenton Iron Works. This factory became a major producer of iron products, including rails for the expanding railroad network. Cooper's innovative practices and commitment to quality made the Trenton Iron Works a significant player in the American industrial landscape.

Cooper's most enduring legacy is the establishment of Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art. Founded in 1859 in New York City, Cooper Union provided free education to men and women regardless of race, religion, or social class. This institution embodied his belief in the power of education to uplift individuals and transform society, offering opportunities for advancement that were previously inaccessible to many.

At the age of 85, Peter Cooper received the presidential nomination from the Greenback Party, an indication of his popularity and influence, and his commitment to economic reform. Though he did not win the election, his candidacy brought important economic issues to the forefront of the national debate.

Peter Cooper passed away in his beloved New York City at the age of 92. His death marked the end of an era, but his impact on American industry, education, and philanthropy continues to resonate. Cooper's legacy serves as a testament to the power of ingenuity, perseverance, and a genuine desire to create a better world for all.