This article is about American philanthropist John D. MacArthur. For other people named John MacArthur, please see John MacArthur (disambiguation)

John D. MacArthur (March 6, 1897 – January 6, 1978) was an American philanthropist who established the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, benefactor in the MacArthur Fellowships.

MacArthur made his fortune in the insurance business; in 1935, he acquired the Bankers Life and Casualty Company for $2,500. In subsequent years, he built up a business empire through acquisitions of many small insurance companies. He also invested heavily in Florida real estate.

His brother Charles MacArthur was an American playwright and screenwriter, best known as co-author of the play The Front Page.

He married Catherine T. Hyland, who was intimately involved for decades in management of his companies.

His grandson, John R. MacArthur is publisher of Harper's Magazine.

External links

• MacArthur Foundation website
• Bankers Life website
• History of Bankers Life