Great Fortunes Of The Gilded Age (Astor/Vanderbilt)

During the 19th century, America saw a handful of families dominate the economy with staggering fortunes.  Their wealth is almost unimaginable and their control of the American economy could not be duplicated today.

If I asked you to name the richest American, you’d probably say Bill Gates or Warren Buffet.  Both are from the top of the list!

Today we focus on the earliest American millionaires – John Jacob Astor and Cornelius Vanderbilt. They would rank #4 and #3, respectively on the list of the richest Americans of all time! Their names are still synonymous with wealth and prestige – but do you know how they got their money? Each is a story of amazing work ethics, great judgement and laser-like focus on acquiring wealth.  You will be fascinated by the ways they built vast fortunes before the Gilded Age even began!

This four week series examines the great fortunes of that fascinating era.  We will attempt to put each into perspective and offer intriguing insights, modern comparisons and historical context for each. Of the nine wealthiest Americans, six lived during the Gilded Age!

# 2: Vanderbilt

#3: Astor

#4: Girard

#5: Gates

#6: Carnegie

#7: Stewart

#8 Weyerhaeuser

#9 Gould