William Collins Whitney was an influential American businessman and politician in the late 19th century. Born in 1841, he became a prominent figure in the New York City political scene and served as the Secretary of the Navy under President Grover Cleveland. Whitney was known for his role in modernizing the U.S. Navy and promoting naval expansion. In addition to his political career, Whitney was a successful financier and played a key role in the development of various industries, including railroads and insurance. He was also a significant figure in the establishment of the Whitney Museum of American Art, which honors his family's legacy in the arts.