Cornelius Vanderbilt quotes

Cornelius Vanderbilt was an American businessman and philanthropist known for building vast fortunes in shipping and railroads. His aggressive business tactics transformed transportation and helped shape the modern American economy. He became one of the wealthiest people of his era and a prominent figure in the Gilded Age. Here are 12 of his quotes:

If I had learned education I would not have had time to learn anything else.

Cornelius Vanderbilt

I have always served the public to the best of my ability. Why? Because, like every other man, it is to my interest to do so.

Cornelius Vanderbilt

I have been insane on the subject of moneymaking all my life.

Cornelius Vanderbilt

I don't care half so much about making money as I do about making my point, and coming out ahead.

Cornelius Vanderbilt

I am not afraid of my enemies, but by God, you must look out when you get among your friends.

Cornelius Vanderbilt

There is no friendship in trade.

Cornelius Vanderbilt

It is not according to my mode of doing things, to bring a suit against a man that I have the power in my own hands to punish.

Cornelius Vanderbilt

Gentlemen, You have undertaken to cheat me. I won't sue you, for law is too slow. I'll ruin you. Yours truly, Cornelius Vanderbilt.

Cornelius Vanderbilt

Let them do what I have done.

Cornelius Vanderbilt

It is not according to my mode of doing things to bring a suit against a man that I have the power in my own hands to punish.... The law, as I view it, goes too slow for me when I have the remedy in my own hands.... I for one will never go to law when I have got the power in my own hands to see myself right. Let the other parties go to law if they want, but by God I think I know what the law is; I have had enough of it.

Cornelius Vanderbilt