Cornelius Vanderbilt (May 27, 1794 – January 4, 1877) was an American business magnate and philanthropist who built his wealth in railroads and shipping. Born poor and having only a mediocre education, Vanderbilt used perseverance, intelligence and luck to work his way into leadership positions in the inland water trade and invest in the rapidly growing railroad industry. Nicknamed "The Commodore", he is known for owning the New York Central Railroad.
