Great Fortunes Of The Gilded Age: Rockefeller

During the Gilded Age, America saw a handful of families dominate the economy with staggering fortunes.

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

Today we focus on the richest man of all time. How rich was John D. Rockefeller?  He was wealthier than Gates and Walton and Warren Buffet added together! At one time his personal income was almost 2% of the entire American GDP!  SO where did Rockefeller get his money.  Oil, of course – but that is only part of the story. And the rest of the story of this fascinating man is a tale of cold-hearted business practice, unparalleled personal generosity, and deep commitment to religion.  What a man!

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!

#1 Rockefeller

# 2: Vanderbilt

#3: Astor

#4: Girard

#5: Gates

#6: Carnegie

#7: Stewart

#8 Weyerhaeuser

#9 Gould