William Henry Vanderbilt was an American businessman born on May 8, 1821. He was the eldest son of Cornelius Vanderbilt, a prominent railroad and shipping magnate. After his father's death in 1877, William inherited a significant portion of the family fortune and took over the management of the New York Central Railroad, expanding its operations and increasing its profitability. Vanderbilt was known for his shrewd business acumen and played a crucial role in the growth of the American railroad industry during the late 19th century. He passed away on December 8, 1885, leaving behind a legacy of wealth and influence in the transportation sector.