Leland Stanford Male
Politician
March 9, 1824
Watervliet, New York, United States0
0 likes8
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Leland Stanford (born March 9, 1824 - June 21, 1893) was an American politician, businessman, and philanthropist best known for founding Stanford University. Born in Watervliet, New York, Stanford studied law before moving west to California during the Gold Rush. He quickly rose to prominence as a successful merchant and railroad executive.
Stanford played a central role in developing the American railroad system as one of the "Big Four" founders of the Central Pacific Railroad, which helped build the western portion of the first U.S. transcontinental railroad. His business ventures made him one of the wealthiest men of his era. In politics, Leland Stanford served as the eighth governor of California from 1862 to 1863 and later as a U.S. Senator from 1885 until his death in 1893.
In 1885, Stanford and his wife, Jane Lathrop Stanford, founded Leland Stanford Junior University in memory of their only child. The university became one of the world's leading institutions for higher education and innovation. Stanford's legacy endures through his contributions to American infrastructure, education, and philanthropy, marking him as a key figure in 19th-century American history.
Latest news about Leland Stanford
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San Francisco Chronicle
California Historical Society Archives Move to Stanford University
On 2025-01-28, the California Historical Society announced it will permanently close and transfer its 600,000-item collection to Stanford University. The holdings include letters, maps, photographs, and historical documents, which will be housed as the California History Collection at Stanford libraries. This acquisition is intended to bolster Stanford's role as a major research center on western U.S. history.
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ABC10
Tour the Historic Leland Stanford Mansion in Sacramento
Published 2025-02-20, a feature highlights the Leland Stanford Mansion in Sacramento as a Victorian-era landmark and museum. The article explores the mansion's architecture, historical context, and relevance to California's Gilded Age. It underscores the legacy of Leland Stanford as both a political figure and railroad magnate.
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The Almanac News
Leland Stanford's Failed Acquisition of College Terrace Land
On 2023-09-26, a local history feature revisited Leland Stanford's attempt to acquire the tract then known as College Terrace in Palo Alto, which developer Alexander Gordon refused to sell. The article details Stanford's lawsuit attempt and how the subdivision later became an independent residential enclave adjacent to Stanford University. The dispute illustrates land development tensions in Stanford's era.
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History Department, Stanford (Riskin review)
Scholars Reexamine Stanford Legacy in 'American Disruptor'
A recent scholarly review, titled "A Poisonous Legacy," examines Roland De Wolk's American Disruptor: The Scandalous Life of Leland Stanford, critiquing hagiographic portrayals and exposing controversies around Stanford's railroad business and influence. The review, published in Stanford's history department, argues for a more complex view of Stanford's role in the Gilded Age. It underscores increasing academic interest in the ethical and societal impacts of his wealth and power.
Frequently Asked Questions about Leland Stanford
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Who was Leland Stanford?
Leland Stanford was an American politician, industrialist, and philanthropist who founded Stanford University and helped build the Transcontinental Railroad.
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When was Leland Stanford born?
Leland Stanford was born on March 9, 1824, in Watervliet, New York, United States.
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When did Leland Stanford die?
Leland Stanford died on June 21, 1893, in Palo Alto, California.
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What is Leland Stanford best known for?
Leland Stanford is best known for founding Stanford University and for his leadership in building the Central Pacific Railroad, part of the Transcontinental Railroad.
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What was Leland Stanford's role in politics?
Leland Stanford served as the governor of California from 1862 to 1863 and later as a U.S. Senator from California between 1885 and 1893.
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What did Leland Stanford study?
Leland Stanford studied law in New York before moving to California, where he built a career in business and politics.
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Who was Leland Stanford's wife?
Leland Stanford's wife was Jane Lathrop Stanford, who co-founded Stanford University with him in memory of their son.
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What was the Central Pacific Railroad?
The Central Pacific Railroad was a key company that built the western portion of the U.S. Transcontinental Railroad, co-founded by Leland Stanford in 1861.
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Where is Stanford University located?
Stanford University is located in Stanford, California, near Palo Alto, and was established by Leland and Jane Stanford in 1885.
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Why did Leland Stanford found Stanford University?
Leland Stanford founded Stanford University with his wife in memory of their only child, Leland Stanford Jr., who died of typhoid fever at age 15.
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What industries did Leland Stanford work in?
Leland Stanford was involved in railroads, agriculture, and politics, becoming a major figure in 19th-century American industrial development.
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How did Leland Stanford contribute to education?
Through the founding of Stanford University, Leland Stanford contributed significantly to higher education, promoting access and innovation in learning.
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When was Leland Stanford born?
Born on March 9, 1824
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What is Leland Stanford best known for?
Leland Stanford is known as a Politician from United States.
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How old is Leland Stanford?
Leland Stanford is 69 years old.
