The Astor family, one of the wealthiest dynasties in American history, rose to prominence in the late 18th century. Founded by John Jacob Astor, a German immigrant, they amassed a huge fortune through fur trading and New York real estate.
They built their wealth from the ground up to become one of the richest and most influential families in the 19th and 20th centuries. Their dealings in business and connections in politics extended to Great Britain, where family members won seats in the British parliament.
The Astor family tree is vast, spread across several generations. Its founding members are the "landlords of New York," and those who eventually ingratiated themselves into London high society.
This gallery profiles five prominent members of the Astor family and examines the triumph—and tragedy—each experienced as they lived a life of extraordinary privilege and immense wealth. Click on and follow this fascinating timeline.