'Vanderbilt' by Anderson Cooper

In his new book, CNN anchor and "60 Minutes" correspondent Anderson Cooper tells the story of the Vanderbilt family dynasty – from his great-great-great-grandfather, Cornelius "Commodore" Vanderbilt, once the richest man in America who built his fortune through steamships and railroads, to his mother, socialite Gloria Vanderbilt. Cooper talks with correspondent Mo Rocca about how the wealth and privilege in his family tree marked succeeding generations.

"CBS Sunday Morning" features stories on the arts, music, nature, entertainment, sports, history, science and Americana, and highlights unique human accomplishments and achievements. Check local listings for CBS Sunday Morning broadcast times.

[cornernan]

The Vanderbilt family is not different from many wealthy families around the world. The old saying goes. First generation makes it, second generation works it and third generation spends it. I don't think they were crazy. It just proves the point that if you never worked for it then there is no value to it.

[margo]

I think Gloria deserves her own kudos here. She did make a fortune with those jeans. Women's accomplishments are too often brushed aside. She was in dire circumstances and she pulled a rabbit out of the hat.

[TaDarling]

He's a sharp individual to have been able to recognize in his teens the importance of having a plan and working hard to execute that plan.

[KandeShack]

My Son received an award at the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, RI. We went to an incredible dinner at The Breakers, one of the Vanderbilt’s homes. Incredible evening!

[mommas]

I think it’s incredible that with all the fortune and tragedy, Anderson found his own way. Like them or not, this family helped to build America.

[Kristin]

It's amazing to see how hard working and down to earth Anderson is, considering his family history. He could have tried to capitalize on the Vanderbilt name, but never did so. Such an honorable man.

[leonard]

mother did SOMETHING right and she surely knew this as she watched you become a beautiful young man. And as she left this earth she must have gone with such pride and love in her heart for you.

[starryskychic]

Can you imagine having a grandfather that died in 1925 and you’re still a young man today. On top of that Your grandfather is Reginald Vanderbilt son and heir to the Vanderbilt fortune. It is heartbreaking what that family did to Gloria.

[meadowview]

We so love Anderson Cooper. He just lights up when he speaks of his son and his mother. We don’t see honest reporting on tv so Anderson is a rarity. I know your son will grow up to be a fine upstanding man like his father.

[conniecrawford]

I am thrilled that the NC mansion Biltmore is still owned by the family and is open as a museum/ tourist attraction. It’s a glimpse in to a bygone period of history! Like Anderson, it is self- supporting and pays its own bills! I live in NC and we are proud of being home to the largest privately owned home in America!

[lindacha]

The family legacy continues with interesting people, who have goals and visions like Anderson. What a remarkable man carrying the name into another century.

[GB-gogp]

Anderson Cooper is one of the few celebrities I'd like to meet. My mother passed away shortly before his & I could feel that dude's pain through the TV. The look on his face when he talks about his son is similar to the look on my face when I talk about my daughter, even now that she's 30. Seems like a one of the good guys

[annsmith]

To Gloria's credit :
She did make her own fortune with her jeans - they are the only jeans I will wear -- because I am tall and they fit well. At the same time and in context and again --- kudos to Gloria --- women of her generation were culturally shielded around all aspects of money and knew nothing about money --- so good for Gloria ---- she made her own millions. Anderson --- you work very hard but your mother was never expected to ---- it wasn't "done." I hold Gloria Vanderbilt in the highest regard and with the utmost respect. A great power of example for young women!

[marycoleman]

I love Anderson Cooper! One of the most genuine, honest humans ever!

[paulettelagarde]

I remember this wonderful story. Gloria was the "poor little rich girl" she had a wonderful nanny that she was very close to and loved dearly. I think she went to live with other rich family members in Florida. Her cousin was a star in television and movies. For such an unstable upbringing even though very wealthy, Gloria did very well for herself. We all loved her jeans. She was quite beautiful too! That's is why Anderson is such a looker. He does not seem to be spoiled and obnoxious. You go Anderson. What a great American story!

[Revelwoodie]

There's a library at Biltmore that is my happy place. Literally. I've memorized every part of that room so I can call up the image when I'm stressed out. The fireplace, the red upholstery, and the miles of books. When we remodeled the third floor of our house, we ripped everything out, put in built-in bookcases, and did the whole thing in red. Thanks, Biltmore, for being beautiful!

[stephanietaylor]

Gloria Vanderbilt was worth over 200 million at one time, but was swindled out of most of it and had to sell off her mansion and New York Townhouse to pay taxes and debts. Anderson was smart to not ever depend on a non existent inheritance from his mother. I admire his work ethic!

[noelbecker]

Anderson Cooper is such a dear man. Can't wait to read his book.

[marialewis]

I met Anderson twice, in NJ, when he came to a local hospital to promote LGBTQ charities and once when he did his stage show with Andy Cohen. He is more charming and gracious in person, and such a wonderful human being...thrilled he has a precious child he loves and he is truly a legend and an icon in his own right regardless of his family history...❤️❤️❤️

[richmoves]

I didn't know that was his attitude towards the family… much respect. 🇺🇸