John Jacob Astor was a German-American businessman and fur trader, born in 1763 in Germany. He is best known for founding the Astor family and becoming one of the wealthiest men in America during the early 19th century. Astor made his fortune primarily through the fur trade, establishing the American Fur Company and expanding his business across the United States. In addition to his success in fur trading, Astor invested in real estate, particularly in New York City. He played a significant role in the development of the city, and his investments laid the groundwork for future urban growth. Astor passed away in 1848, leaving a lasting legacy in American business and philanthropy.