USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -In the 1860s, he shifted his focus to the railroad industry, where he built another empire and helped make railroad transportation more efficient. When Vanderbilt died, he was worth more than $100 million.

Detailed explanation-2: -He later acquired the Hudson River Railroad and the New York Central Railroad and consolidated them in 1869. When he added the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railroad in 1873, Vanderbilt was able to offer the first rail service from New York City to Chicago.

Detailed explanation-3: -By cutting fares on competing lines, Vanderbilt drove down the Stonington stock price, and took over the presidency of the company in 1847. It was the first of the many railroads he would head. During these years, Vanderbilt also operated many other businesses.

Detailed explanation-4: -Cornelius Vanderbilt became an iconic figure of American industry and capitalism in the 19th century. He embraced new technology such as steamships and railroads to build a business empire using the tactics of the unregulated free market that have become synonymous with the Industrial Revolution.

Detailed explanation-5: -Cornelius Vanderbilt began a passenger ferry business in New York harbor with one boat, then started his own steamship company, eventually controlling Hudson River traffic. He also provided the first rail service between New York and Chicago.