Cornelius Vanderbilt

Date of Birth: May 27, 1794

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: January 4, 1877

Biography

Cornelius Vanderbilt, also known as “The Commodore,” was an American business magnate and philanthropist who built his wealth in railroads and shipping. Born into a modest family on Staten Island, New York, Vanderbilt left school at the age of 11 to work with his father. He started his own ferry service at 16, which marked the beginning of his long and prosperous career in transportation. Over time, Vanderbilt expanded his business interests into steamships and railroads, ultimately founding the New York Central Railroad. His shrewd business practices and competitive spirit made him one of the wealthiest individuals in American history. Vanderbilt was also a noted philanthropist, donating significant sums to institutions such as Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee.

5 Interesting Facts about Cornelius Vanderbilt

1. Cornelius Vanderbilt started his first business at the age of 16 with a $100 loan from his mother.

2. He was known as “The Commodore” due to his dominance in the shipping industry.

3. Vanderbilt’s New York Central Railroad was one of the first to offer a direct rail link between New York City and Chicago.

4. He donated $1 million to Central University, which was later renamed Vanderbilt University in his honor.

5. At the time of his death, Vanderbilt was the richest man in the United States.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Cornelius Vanderbilt

1. “If I had learned education, I would not have had time to learn anything else.”

2. “What do I care about law? Ain’t I got the power?”

3. “I don’t care half so much about making money as I do about making my point, and coming out ahead.”

4. “I have been insane on the subject of moneymaking all my life.”

5. “I am not afraid of my enemies, but by God, you must look out when you get among your friends.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Cornelius Vanderbilt achieved a peak net worth of approximately $185 billion in today’s dollars, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in history.

Children

Cornelius Vanderbilt had 13 children with his wife, Sophia Johnson. Their names are as follows: 1. Phebe Jane Vanderbilt 2. Ethelinda Vanderbilt 3. Eliza Vanderbilt 4. William Henry Vanderbilt 5. Emily Almira Vanderbilt 6. Sophia Johnson Vanderbilt 7. Maria Louisa Vanderbilt 8. Frances Lavinia Vanderbilt 9. Cornelius Jeremiah Vanderbilt 10. George Washington Vanderbilt 11. Mary Alicia Vanderbilt 12. Catherine Juliette Vanderbilt 13. Another child who died in infancy.