The Life and Ventures of Erik Prince

Erick Prince was born on June 6, 1969, in Holland, Michigan. He is the son of Edgar Prince, an industrialist. Erick attended the U.S. Naval Academy but transferred to Hillsdale College, where he graduated with a degree in economics.

In 1997, Prince founded Blackwater, a private military company. Initially a training facility, Blackwater soon became a major contractor for the U.S. government, notably in Iraq and Afghanistan, providing security services and training to military and police forces.

Blackwater faced numerous controversies, including the 2007 Nisour Square massacre in Baghdad, where Blackwater guards killed 17 Iraqi civilians. This incident led to increased scrutiny and legal challenges, ultimately tarnishing the company's reputation.

After selling Blackwater in 2010, Prince rebranded the company as Academi. He has since been involved in various ventures, including Frontier Services Group, focusing on logistics and security in Africa, and remains a controversial figure in the private military industry.

Surprisingly, Prince also explored a venture in the mineral-rich Democratic Republic of Congo, aiming to provide logistics and mining services. His diverse interests extend beyond military contracting, highlighting his adaptability and strategic thinking.

In 2005, Blackwater was hired to provide security for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Louisiana post-Hurricane Katrina, showcasing their versatility beyond war zones.