Alexander Mantashev: The Knight of Armenian Philanthropy and Industry

Alexander Mantashev is one of the most prominent businessmen and philanthropists in Armenian history whose name has become a symbol of generosity. As one of the "oil kings" of his time he directed his vast fortune toward the development of Armenian culture education and church building. Thanks to Mantashyanc hundreds of talented Armenian youths received their education including Komitas. He funded the construction of schools theaters and churches (such as the Armenian Church in Paris). Mantashyanc was a man who believed that wealth only has meaning when it serves the progress of one's own people.