Here's a breakdown:
Positive:
* Founded the Milton Hershey School: This is arguably his most significant contribution to children. He established the school in 1909 to provide free education and housing to orphaned boys, later expanding to include girls. His intent was to give disadvantaged children a chance at a good life and contribute to society.
* Employed many children: Hershey's chocolate factory employed children in the early years, although conditions were likely not ideal by today's standards. He believed in hard work and saw this as a way for children to contribute.
* Believed in education: He funded the school and emphasized its role in the children's development.
* Displayed affection: There are anecdotes of Hershey showing genuine care for the children at the school, often interacting with them personally.
Negative:
* Factory working conditions: His early use of child labor is seen as exploitative by modern standards, even if it was common practice at the time.
* Strict discipline: The school, while offering opportunities, was run with a strict, almost militaristic approach, prioritizing discipline over individual needs. This was a common educational philosophy of the era, but it can be seen as harsh today.
* Controlling nature: Hershey's personal control over the school was absolute, and he was known for his demanding nature. This could have impacted children's individual development.
Overall:
Milton Hershey's legacy is a complicated one. While he left a significant positive impact through the school he created, his views on children were shaped by the era in which he lived. His actions, both good and bad, reflected the social norms of the time and his own personal beliefs, which may not be easily reconciled with modern values.