The richest Americans

Wealth is relative, and the value of the dollar is far from fixed. So this ranking of American plutocrats measures their total wealth as a fraction of U.S. GDP at their time of death (or for Gates, 2006).

2 of 10

1794-1877

Cornelius Vanderbilt

American capitalist whose occupations ranged from railroad builder and executive to financier and promoter.

Industry: Shipping

Wealth at death: $105,000,000

Wealth/GDP: 1/87

The Wealthy 100, by M. Klepper and R. Gunther (updated by the authors)

The Fractional Life

With jewelry, yachts and vineyards available by the slice, even the superrich are learning to share. Here are seven ways to enjoy the luxury life. (more)

Almanac of American Wealth

Who's got it and how they're spending it. (more)

How they give back

The largest donations in U.S. history. (more)