The First Tycoon: The Epic Life of Cornelius Vanderbilt

By: T.J. Stiles

Published April 21st 2009 by Vintage (first published January 1st 2009)

Category: Business

Pages: 736 pages

ISBN: B0026UNZD6

Description:
NATIONAL BESTSELLER
WINNER OF THE NATIONAL BOOK AWARD

In this groundbreakingÊbiography, T.J. Stiles tells the dramatic story of Cornelius ÒCommodoreÓ Vanderbilt, the combative man and American icon who, through his genius and force of will, did more than perhaps any other individual to create modern capitalism. Meticulously researched and elegantly written, The First Tycoon describes an improbable life, from VanderbiltÕs humble birth during the presidency of George Washington to his death as one of the richest men in American history. In between we see how the Commodore helped to launch the transportation revolution, propel the Gold Rush, reshape Manhattan, and invent the modern corporation. Epic in its scope and success, the life of Vanderbilt is also the story of the rise of America itself.


From the Trade Paperback edition.