Family tree of William Waldorf ASTOR
American politician
Born William Waldorf ASTOR
Wealthy American who became a British nobleman
Born on March 31, 1848 in New York City, New York, USA , United States
Died on October 18, 1919 in Brighton, England
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In 1878, he married Mary Dahlgren Paul (1858–1894).
... William Astor was born in New York City, the only child of German American John Jacob Astor III (1822–1890) and Charlotte Augusta Gibbes (c. 1825-1887). His childhood was spent in Germany and in Italy under the care of private tutors and a Governess. He grew up in a cold and distant household. In his early adult years he moved back to the United States and began studies at Columbia Law School. He was called to the United States Bar in 1875, and worked shortly in law practice and in the management of his father's estate. After exploration and some time practicing law, William Waldorf thought he had finally found his true calling and an opportunity to make a name for himself outside of his families fortune in the political realm. In 1877 with his eyes set on the United States Congress, William Waldorf entered New York City's political machine.
In 1878, he married Mary Dahlgren Paul (1858–1894).
He was elected to the New York State Assembly in 1877, and to the Senate in 1879 where he served until 1881. Astor was likely elected with help from the boss of the New York State Republican machine, notorious Roscoe Conkling, with whom his family was involved. In 1881, Astor was defeated by Roswell P. Flower as a candidate for United States Congress. A second attempt at the seat also resulted in defeat. This second attempt to win the seat was disastrous to his career and character. He could not compete with his democratic opponent, Flower, and his shy nature could not handle the constant attacks of his character. His political career was brief and largely unfruitful and ended after he failed to get elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. The press used his political failures as fodder for more harsh criticisms. The press had already targeted for his inheritance and the exposure of his failures weakened his desire to remain in the United States. In 1882, President Chester A. Arthur appointed Astor Minister to Italy, a post he held until 1885. ("Go and enjoy yourself, my dear boy," the president told Astor.) While living in Rome, Astor developed a lifelong passion for art and sculpture.
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