1. The Vanderbilt’s and Social Darwinism September 23, 2014

2. Cornelius Vanderbilt 1794 – 1877 (New York) INDUSTRY known for: Railroad Started off in ferry business 1865: Civil War ends – Vanderbilt enters into RAILROAD industry – Forms New York Central Railroad Company 1873: Builds railroad that connects NYC to Chicago Donates $1 million to form Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN) William Henry Vanderbilt (1821 – 1885) Son of Cornelius/ took over business after died Gave MILLIONS to Vanderbilt University and helped form Columbia University Cornelius Vanderbilt Jr. (1843 – 1899) Son of William Henry Donated MILLIONS to form Columbia Medical Center & the Cathedral of St. John the Divine (NYC) 1892: “Breakers” mansion (RI) - $12 mil

3. Charles Darwin (1850s) - Darwinism Animals evolve over time to compete (and survive in the world) Animals who don’t evolve/ die out (Natural selection) Social Darwinism (1900s) Only the fit survive; evolve to make more $$$ If you’re the best, you will make more $$$ Justifies the millions that business owners are making, but… Workers 10-12 hour days/ 6 days per week Earn 15 cents an hour No health benefits/ no sick time No vacation No life insurance Children work in the mines/ sewing factories (8 years old) Eventually workers demand more rights….This leads to __________ LABOR UNIONS