Julie Ferry

This was ok.
This is very much written like fiction with thoughts and feelings the author couldn't have been privy to.
In addition the research is faulty or the claims are greatly exaggerated.
The Commodore (Vanderbilt) grew up in a family wealthy enough that his MOTHER gave him $100 cash. At the time this exchange occurred the US was a fairly cash poor nation. That's a lot of money for a woman to have control of if the family was poor or lived poverty.
This is not to negate that The Commodore had a knack for business and was very hardworking. He was also cheap, he never financially supported his wife or kids which is extremely odd for this time period especially given his considerable wealth.
He also stole from people who invested with him. His great wealth was largely built through theft. Hence his title as the first Robber Baron… (plus d'informations)