Cornelius Vanderbilt

American railroad and shipping magnate, known as "the Commodore".

Chronology: 1794-05-27 – 1877-01-04

Origins & Early Life

Cornelius Vanderbilt (May 27, 1794 – January 4, 1877), nicknamed "the Commodore", was an American business magnate who built his wealth in railroads and shipping. After working with his father's business, he worked his way into leadership positions in inland and coastal shipping, then invested in the rapidly growing railroad industry, which transformed the geography of the United States. As one of the richest Americans in history and wealthiest figures overall, Vanderbilt was the patriarch of the wealthy and influential Vanderbilt family. He provided the initial gift to found Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

For his monopoly on shipping and the railroads, facilitated in part by political manipulation, Vanderbilt is often described as either a "captain of industry" or a "robber baron". == Ancestry == Cornelius Vanderbilt's great-great-great-grandfather, Jan Aertson or Aertszoon ("Aert's son"), was a Dutch farmer from the village of De Bilt in Utrecht, Netherlands, who immigrated to New Amsterdam (later New York) as an indentured servant in 1650. The Dutch van der ("of the") was eventually added to Aertson's village name to create "van der Bilt" ("of the Bilt"). This was...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Source: Wikipedia