Great fortunes are often built on bold ideas and unwavering ambition. The wealthiest families in history have not only accumulated incredible wealth but also shaped economies and cultures with their influence. Their legacies reflect their enduring power and the stories that continue to fascinate. Now, let’s explore how they built and preserved their empires.
The Al Nahyans
The Al Nahyans are one of the six ruling families of the United Arab Emirates. They are regarded as the world’s richest family, possessing 6% of the world’s oil reserves, several properties worldwide, and even the Manchester City Football Club. The family has a net worth of $305 billion.
The Waltons
In 1962, Sam Walton founded Walmart to support his family. His vision was simple: sell quality goods, lower supplier prices, and provide excellent customer service, leading to Walmart’s success as the world’s largest retailer and private employer. Now, the families of seven heirs own an estimated 45% of Walmart’s stock.
The Hermès
The Hermès family’s wealth began in 1837 when Thierry Hermès founded the company in Paris as a harness and saddle workshop for European nobility. Renowned for exceptional craftsmanship, the brand evolved into a luxury powerhouse under subsequent generations, introducing iconic products like the Kelly and Birkin bags.
The Mars
In 1911, Franklin Clarence Mars founded Mars, Inc., starting with the Milky Way bar. The company expanded globally and introduced iconic products like M&M’s and Snickers. Currently, the family maintains ownership and continues to grow through strategic acquisitions, such as the $36 billion purchase of Kellanova in 2024.
The Hearsts
It all began with George Hearst becoming a businessman and politician in the late 19th century. His son, Randolph, expanded their business by building a media empire, also known today as Hearst Communications, which includes magazines like Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, and the television network ESPN.
The Rockefellers
John D. Rockefeller became America’s first billionaire in 1916 after he founded Standard Oil in 1870 with his brother, William Rockefeller Jr. The family is known for their involvement in philanthropy, with a focus on health, arts, and trade. They still run the Rockefeller Foundation’s.
The Rothschilds
The patriarch, Mayer Amschel Rothschild, established their banking business in the 1760s. His five sons then established branches in London, Paris, Naples, Frankfurt, and Vienna. By the 19th century, they were the world’s richest. Over time, their wealth spread to real estate, agriculture, winemaking, and more.
The Gettys
J. Paul Getty founded Getty Oil in 1942, a venture that propelled him to become the richest person in the world by the 1950s, thanks to the company’s vast success in the oil industry. Much of the family’s wealth was later invested in the J. Paul Getty Trust, which has since grown into the world’s largest art institution.
The Vanderbilts
Until the mid-20th century, the Vanderbilts were regarded as the richest family in the United States, thanks to their railroad and shipping businesses. They are behind some of the world’s grandest mansions, including Fifth Avenue in New York City and the Berkshire Cottages in Massachusetts.
The Al Thanis
The Al Thani family’s wealth originated in the mid-19th century when Sheikh Mohammed bin Thani established the ruling dynasty in Qatar. Their fortune expanded with the discovery and export of vast oil and natural gas reserves, turning Qatar into one of the world’s wealthiest nations.
The Kochs
Fred C. Koch co-founded the Wood River Oil and Refining Company in 1940. In 1967, his son Charles Koch became chairman and CEO and renamed the company Koch Industries. They expanded into various sectors, including manufacturing, refining, and investments, which made Koch Industries the second-largest privately held company in the U.S.
The Al Sauds
Muhammad bin Saud established the First Saudi State in 1727, the beginning of the Al Saud family’s fortune in the 18th century. After Saudi Arabia’s enormous oil reserves were discovered in the mid-20th century, the family’s fortune skyrocketed. Their assets include unique art collections, yachts, private planes, and castles.
The Ambanis
In 1966, Dhirubhai Ambani founded Reliance Industries, which focused on textiles and later expanded into petrochemicals, refining, and telecommunications. Reliance Industries has since become India’s most valuable company. Mukesh Ambani’s children—Akash, Isha, and Anant—hold key positions in the company.
The Wertheimers
Pierre Wertheimer partnered with Coco Chanel in the 1920s, providing financial backing to establish the Chanel brand. This collaboration laid the foundation for a premier luxury empire. Beyond fashion, the family has expanded their assets with horse racing and breeding operations and wining vineyards in France and California.
The Thomsons
In 1934, Roy Thomson acquired the Timmins Daily Press in Ontario, Canada, with a $200 down payment. By the 1950s, he owned numerous newspapers and purchased The Scotsman in Edinburgh. In 1957, he launched Scottish Television. The family’s holdings have since included significant investments in real estate and other sectors.
