Q:
Was Cornelius Vanderbilt a robber baron?
A:
Quick Answer
Cornelius Vanderbilt was not only a robber baron, he was the first robber baron, according to History. A robber baron is an individual who acquires wealth in a dishonest way.
Continue ReadingFull Answer
Cornelius Vanderbilt had a reputation for being a villainous person, even as a child. He bought his first ferry boat, at age 16, and would often get into fights with other men, beating them until they were unconscious. He continued his cutthroat business dealings until the day he died. Despite being known as a shrewd and violent businessman, what he may be best known for is his $1 million donation to Vanderbilt University. This donation was the largest donation ever made at the time.
Learn more about US HistorySources:
Related Questions
-
Q:
How did Cornelius Vanderbilt treat his employees?
A: Cornelius Vanderbilt apparently treated his employees badly, offering them very low wages and poor working conditions. Vanderbilt was perceived by his cont... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Was J. P. Morgan a robber baron?
A: J.P. Morgan was a wealthy American capitalist and businessman who has often been referred to as a "robber baron." The term was traditionally used in 19th-c... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What's a good resource for learning historical information about United States presidents?
A: History.com provides historical information for U.S. presidents. Detailed information is available for every president from George Washington through Barac... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What jobs were available in colonial North Carolina?
A: Colonial North Carolina's warm, humid climate was perfect for growing tobacco and rice, so most early settlers worked on tobacco and rice plantations, acco... Full Answer >Filed Under:
You May Also Like
-
Q:
What significant event started the American Revolution?
-
Q:
What are some facts about the Great Chicago Fire?
-
Q:
Who are some famous servant leaders?
-
Q:
Who are some of the people who did not attend the Constitutional Convention?
-
Q:
What is a summary of the Harlem Renaissance?
-
Q:
Who was Dred Scott?
