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Philip Anschutz

Businessman, including land and oil. Born: December 28, 1939, Russell, Kansas.

Philip Anschutz was born December 28, 1939, in Russell, Kansas. Anschutz's ancestors came from Russia and moved to America where they became successful in business. His father was an entrepreneur in the oil industry. Anschutz grew up in Kansas and graduated from Wichita East High School. He received a bachelor's degree in business from the University of Kansas.

Anschutz expanded the family business holdings in land and oil. He is said to be one of the largest private land owners in the United States. He became heavily involved in the railroad business, entertainment, and communications. He owns interests in about 100 companies, including many Major League soccer teams, and movie rights including The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.

He serves as chairman of the Anschutz Foundation. He is involved in numerous boards including the American Petroleum Institute, the National Petroleum Council, the Kansas University Endowment Association, and a member of several other large organizations.

Anchutz was elected to the Kansas Business Hall of Fame in 2000. Forbes listed Anschutz as the 133rd wealthiest person in the world and the 47th wealthiest person in the United States. He was named the Native Sons and Daughters of Kansas 2017 Kansan of the Year.

Entry: Philip Anschutz

Author: Kansas Historical Society

Author information: The Kansas Historical Society is a state agency charged with actively safeguarding and sharing the state's history.

Date Created: November 2012

Date Modified: February 2019

The author of this article is solely responsible for its content.