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Asa Griggs Candler: Founder

Discover the extraordinary life of Asa Griggs Candler—a man whose deep Christian faith, entrepreneurial spirit, and civic leadership helped build one of the world’s most iconic brands and shape the future of Atlanta and beyond.

In 1888, Candler purchased the Coca-Cola formula and, through bold marketing and innovative bottling strategies, founded The Coca-Cola Company in 1892. His leadership transformed a small pharmacy tonic into a household name across America and around the world, fuelled by the introduction of the famous contoured glass bottle.

Yet Candler’s impact extended far beyond business. A devout Christian, he believed his success was a gift to be used for the greater good. As Atlanta’s 41st mayor, he led the city’s recovery after the devastating Great Fire of 1917 and championed major infrastructure improvements that modernized Atlanta. He was also a major philanthropist, donating more than $7 million to Emory University, helping relocate the school to Atlanta, and funding significant landmarks like the 17-story Candler Building.

Candler’s vision reached beyond Georgia as well, financing major Candler Buildings in New York City, Kansas City, and Baltimore—lasting monuments to his national influence.

Originally written in 1950 by his son, Charles Howard Candler, this authorized biography is rich with firsthand accounts from those who knew Asa best and witnessed Coca-Cola’s earliest days. Now available in a Special 75th Anniversary eBook Revised Edition—featuring a new foreword by the author’s great-grandson.

Perfect for readers of Christian biographies, business history, Southern heritage, and American innovation, Asa Griggs Candler celebrates the faith, generosity, and vision of one of America’s most inspiring entrepreneurs.

Asa Griggs Candler: Founder of Coca-Cola and Atlanta Visionary

Discover the extraordinary life of Asa Griggs Candler—a man whose deep Christian faith, entrepreneurial spirit, and civic leadership helped build one of the world’s most iconic brands and shape the future of Atlanta and beyond.

In 1888, Candler purchased the Coca-Cola formula and, through bold marketing and innovative bottling strategies, founded The Coca-Cola Company in 1892. His leadership transformed a small pharmacy tonic into a household name across America and around the world, fuelled by the introduction of the famous contoured glass bottle.

Yet Candler’s impact extended far beyond business. A devout Christian, he believed his success was a gift to be used for the greater good. As Atlanta’s 41st mayor, he led the city’s recovery after the devastating Great Fire of 1917 and championed major infrastructure improvements that modernized Atlanta. He was also a major philanthropist, donating more than $7 million to Emory University, helping relocate the school to Atlanta, and funding significant landmarks like the 17-story Candler Building.

Candler’s vision reached beyond Georgia as well, financing major Candler Buildings in New York City, Kansas City, and Baltimore—lasting monuments to his national influence.

Originally written in 1950 by his son, Charles Howard Candler, this authorized biography is rich with firsthand accounts from those who knew Asa best and witnessed Coca-Cola’s earliest days. Now available in a Special 75th Anniversary eBook Revised Edition—featuring a new foreword by the author’s great-grandson.

Perfect for readers of Christian biographies, business history, Southern heritage, and American innovation, Asa Griggs Candler celebrates the faith, generosity, and vision of one of America’s most inspiring entrepreneurs.