Marc Rich was a notable figure in the commodities trading industry, known for his pioneering impact on global oil trading. He founded the company Marc Rich + Co AG in the 1970s, which became one of the largest independent oil trading companies in the world. Rich's ability to capitalize on geopolitical events and market fluctuations enabled him to amass significant wealth and influence. His strategies often involved trading with politically sensitive countries, which drew both admiration and criticism. In addition to his business acumen, Rich's legacy is mixed due to his legal troubles. He was indicted in the United States on charges of tax evasion and trading with Iran during the embargo in the late 1970s. In 1983, he fled the U.S. and lived in Switzerland for many years, maintaining his business operations while facing ongoing legal challenges back home. Marc Rich's life took a surprising turn in 2001 when he was granted a controversial presidential pardon by President Bill Clinton on his final day in office. This forgiveness was met with significant public outcry and raised questions about the ethics of wealthy individuals receiving pardons. Despite these controversies, Rich's impact on the commodities trading sector remains undeniable, marking him as a significant figure in business history. Marc Rich was a prominent commodities trader, known for founding one of the largest independent oil trading companies in the world. His ability to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes allowed him to achieve remarkable success in the industry. Rich faced serious legal issues, including federal charges for tax evasion and illegal trading with Iran, which eventually forced him to live in exile in Switzerland for many years. His controversial presidential pardon in 2001 by President Bill Clinton sparked significant debate about ethics and the influence of wealth in the political sphere, solidifying his complex legacy in both business and legal history.