Cornelius Vanderbilt

Railroad magnate

Modern influential 134 sayings

Sayings by Cornelius Vanderbilt

I have always been a man of integrity.

mid-1800s — Attributed statement
Controversial Unverifiable

I don't like to be told what to do.

mid-1800s — Attributed statement
Controversial Unverifiable

I don't like to compromise.

mid-1800s — Attributed statement
Controversial Unverifiable

I have always been a man of principle.

mid-1800s — Attributed statement
Controversial Unverifiable

I don't like to be idle.

mid-1800s — Attributed statement
Controversial Unverifiable

I don't like to be outsmarted.

mid-1800s — Attributed statement
Controversial Unverifiable

I have always been a man of determination.

mid-1800s — Attributed statement
Controversial Unverifiable

I don't like to be underestimated.

mid-1800s — Attributed statement
Controversial Unverifiable

I don't care a snap for all the railroads in creation. I only ask that the law shall be observed.

Mid-19th Century — Reported during a legal dispute or testimony.
Humorous Unverifiable

I have been in business for 50 years, and I have never lost a cent.

Late 19th Century — Attributed, reflecting his financial success.
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always tried to do my best.

Late 19th Century — Attributed
Humorous Unverifiable

Never tell your resolutions beforehand, or it's half a defeat.

Late 19th Century — Attributed, a pragmatic approach to ambition.
Humorous Unverifiable

If I had it to do over again, I would have put more emphasis on education.

Late 19th Century — Attributed later in his life, reflecting on his lack of formal schooling.
Humorous Unverifiable

I have been through many a storm, and I am not afraid of another.

Late 19th Century — Attributed, showing his resilience.
Humorous Unverifiable

I will not let my money be used to perpetuate idleness.

Late 19th Century — Reported in discussions about his will and philanthropy, reflecting his work ethic.
Humorous Unverifiable

Don't depend on any man. Get your own land and make your own money.

Late 19th Century — Attributed, advice on self-reliance.
Humorous Unverifiable

I have no time for politics.

Late 19th Century — Attributed, reflecting his focus on business over public office.
Humorous Unverifiable

The greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it.

Uncertain — As with J.P. Morgan, this is a widely attributed quote, and its direct and unique attribution to Van…
Humorous Unverifiable

I have made my money by selling what other people wanted.

Late 19th Century — Attributed, a simple summary of his business acumen.
Humorous Unverifiable

My life has been one long struggle.

Late 19th Century — Attributed later in his life, reflecting on his humble beginnings and constant battles.
Humorous Unverifiable