Harold Hamm's Biography

Harold Hamm is a renowned American businessman and oil magnate, best known as the founder and chairman of Continental Resources. Born on December 11, 1945, in Lexington, Oklahoma, Hamm rose from humble beginnings as the youngest of 13 children in a sharecropping family. Despite not attending college, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his own trucking company, which eventually evolved into Continental Resources in 1967. Hamm is credited with pioneering shale oil development in North Dakota’s Bakken formation, playing a pivotal role in America's energy independence. Over the decades, his leadership turned Continental Resources into one of the largest independent oil companies in the United States. Hamm's estimated net worth stands at $25 billion in 2024, reflecting his significant stake in the energy sector. Known for his philanthropic efforts and political advocacy, Hamm has received accolades such as the Horatio Alger Award and was named among TIME's 100 Most Influential People. Despite being involved in one of the largest divorce settlements in history and facing scrutiny over fracking practices, Hamm's impact on the American oil industry is undeniable. He is passionate about ranching, American history, and advancing energy policy. Harold Hamm’s story is a testament to perseverance and innovation, making him a defining figure in the world of business and energy.