Final answer:
Cornelius Vanderbilt and William Vanderbilt were wealthy businessmen in the United States during the Gilded Age. Cornelius made his wealth through the New York Central Railroad Company, while William expanded the family's business interests.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cornelius Vanderbilt and William Vanderbilt were wealthy businessmen during the Gilded Age in the United States. Cornelius Vanderbilt, also known as the Commodore, made his wealth through his ownership and consolidation of various railroad lines, creating the powerful New York Central Railroad Company. His personal wealth at his death placed him among the top three wealthiest individuals in American history. William Vanderbilt, Cornelius's son, inherited his father's wealth and expanded the family's business interests, particularly in railroads.