This biography analyzes Astor's adaption to his American host culture and his rise from poor immigrant in 1784 to the first millionaire of modern times--he earned his money before the term "millionaire" was introduced to the English language. Many consider him to be the fourth wealthiest American of all times. In the mid- to late 1800s, American society did not understand a "millionaire"; after his death, learning that he had $20 million, the public began to discuss the "responsibility" of a millionaire. Some argued that he must have been greedy and cold. Some voices demanded that he should...
This biography analyzes Astor's adaption to his American host culture and his rise from poor immigrant in 1784 to the first millionaire of modern time...