Which Historical Figures were the Wealthiest of All Time?
October 16, 2014Many dream of becoming rich as children and even as adults. However, some achieve this dream and live in massive mansions. Here’s a look at some of the wealthiest historical figures of all time.
John Jacob Astor
Born in Germany, John Jacob Astor came to America and lived as a businessman, inventor and merchant. He’s most known as the first multi-millionaire in the United States. His fortune topped out around $121 billion in today’s money.
Henry Ford
After creating the Ford Auto Company, Henry Ford amassed his fortune. He did more than just make cars and his fortune topped out around $188 billion dollars before passing.
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William the Conqueror
The ruler of the European empire for about 20 years, William the Conqueror built his wealth by conquering kingdoms nearby. His fortune would be worth about $230 billion today, but it was all divided between his sons and scattered across the land.
Andrew Carnegie
Carnegie was an immigrant from Scotland to Pittsburg. He worked hard for about ten years before becoming the owner of the Carnegie Steel Plant. He was one of the richest men in the country with a fortune worth about $320 billion today. He may have amassed even more if he didn’t donate so much money to museums, schools and libraries.
John D. Rockefeller
Known as the single, richest man ever to live, Rockefeller created his fortune from an oil company. He amassed a fortune of nearly $400 billion and donated a large portion to hospitals and schools, along with the University of Chicago upon his death. He was also the first person in America to make $1 billion.