The American Disruptor: The Scandalous Life of Leland Stanford

Leland Stanford was a 19th-century American entrepreneur, politician, and philanthropist who made his fortune in railroads. He was also the founder of Stanford University. Stanford was a complex and controversial figure, known for his wealth, power, and scandals.

American Disruptor: The Scandalous Life of Leland Stanford

by Roland De Wolk

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9360 KB
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Early Life and Career

Leland Stanford was born in Albany County, New York, on March 9, 1824. His father was a farmer and merchant, and his mother was a schoolteacher. Stanford attended Cazenovia Seminary and Clinton Liberal Institute, but he did not graduate from either school.

In 1845, Stanford moved to California to join the California Gold Rush. He initially worked as a store clerk, but he soon became involved in mining and other business ventures. In 1856, he was elected to the California State Legislature, where he served for two terms.

In 1861, Stanford was appointed president of the Central Pacific Railroad. He oversaw the construction of the railroad, which was completed in 1869. The Central Pacific Railroad connected California to the rest of the United States, and it played a major role in the development of the West.

Political Career

In 1868, Stanford was elected governor of California. He served as governor for two terms, during which time he oversaw the construction of the Leland Stanford Mansion, which is now the official residence of the governor of California.

In 1879, Stanford was elected to the United States Senate. He served in the Senate for 15 years, during which time he was a member of the powerful Committee on Appropriations.

Philanthropy

In 1885, Stanford and his wife, Jane Lathrop Stanford, founded Stanford University. The university was named in honor of their only child, Leland Stanford Jr., who died of typhoid fever in 1884.

Stanford University was one of the first major research universities in the United States. It quickly became one of the leading universities in the country, and it continues to be a top-ranked university today.

Scandals

Leland Stanford was a controversial figure throughout his life. He was accused of corruption, fraud, and sexual misconduct.

In 1872, Stanford was accused of bribery in connection with the construction of the Central Pacific Railroad. He was acquitted of the charges, but his reputation was tarnished.

In 1886, Stanford was accused of sexual misconduct by a young woman named Sarah Carr. Carr claimed that Stanford had raped her, and she filed a lawsuit against him. The lawsuit was eventually settled out of court, but the scandal further damaged Stanford's reputation.

Later Years and Death

Stanford retired from public life in 1893. He died at his home in Palo Alto, California, on June 21, 1893. He was buried on the campus of Stanford University.

Legacy

Leland Stanford was a complex and controversial figure. He was a successful businessman, politician, and philanthropist, but he was also accused of corruption, fraud, and sexual misconduct.

Stanford's legacy is mixed. He is remembered as the founder of Stanford University, one of the leading universities in the world. However, he is also remembered for his scandals and for his role in the corruption of American politics in the 19th century.

Leland Stanford was a significant figure in American history. He was a successful businessman, politician, and philanthropist who made a major contribution to the development of the United States. However, he was also a controversial figure who was accused of corruption, fraud, and sexual misconduct. Stanford's legacy is mixed, but he is remembered as one of the most important figures in American history.

American Disruptor: The Scandalous Life of Leland Stanford

by Roland De Wolk

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9360 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	344 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE