When the Astors Owned New York

Discover the captivating world of New York's elite in When the Astors Owned New York by Pulitzer Prize winner Justin Kaplan. Published in 2007, this engaging 208-page book offers a unique blend of biography, social history, and architectural appreciation, making it a must-read for history enthusiasts and casual readers alike.

Delve into the lives of William Waldorf Astor and his cousin John Jacob Astor IV, two heirs to the immense fortune of arch-capitalist John Jacob Astor. Their rivalry for social dominance unfolds against the backdrop of late 19th and early 20th century America, a time characterized by opulence and societal change. Kaplan's narrative brings to life their extraordinary experiences, highlighting their influence on the Gilded Age and beyond.

Join Kaplan on this journey through history, as he illuminates the Astors' impact on New York City and explores the intersection of wealth, power, and culture in a transformative era.