The article reveals the importance of entrepreneurship, which is undergoing a revival stage, for the successful development of Russian society. In this regard, the author analyzes the question of what positive qualities of their predecessors could be borrowed by modern entrepreneurs. Without hushing up the negative characteristics of the manufacturers and breeders of the 19th - early 20th centuries, the authors focused on their business abilities, on their activity, primarily in production activities, on the ability to combine personal interests with national interests, on charity and patronage. The article emphasizes that it is important for a successful entrepreneur not only to continue the best traditions of Russian business, but also to notice new, advanced phenomena in the economy and society, be able to master them, achieve more in life, strive not only for personal wealth, but also take care of prosperity of the homeland.