William Henry Vanderbilt, American businessman and philanthropist (d. 1885)
William Henry "Billy" Vanderbilt (May 8, 1821 – December 8, 1885) was an American businessman and philanthropist. He was the eldest son of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, an heir to his fortune and a prominent member of the Vanderbilt family. Vanderbilt became the richest American after he took over his father's fortune in 1877 until his own death in 1885, passing on a substantial part of the fortune to his wife and children, particularly to his sons Cornelius II and William. He inherited nearly $100 million from his father. The fortune had doubled when he died less than nine years later.
1821May, 8
William Henry Vanderbilt
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Events on 1821
- 22Feb
Danubian Principalities
Greek War of Independence: Alexander Ypsilantis crosses the Prut river at Sculeni into the Danubian Principalities. - 26May
Greek War of Independence
Establishment of the Peloponnesian Senate by the Greek rebels. - 9Jul
Greek War of Independence
Four hundred and seventy prominent Cypriots including Archbishop Kyprianos are executed in response to Cypriot aid to the Greek War of Independence - 23Jul
Monemvasia
While the Mora Rebellion continues, Greeks capture Monemvasia Castle. Turkish troops and citizens are transferred to Minor Asia coasts. - 28Nov
Gran Colombia
Panama Independence Day: Panama separates from Spain and joins Gran Colombia.