HBO’s ‘The Gilded Age’ Was Inspired by the Real-Life Astor Family

The Astor family origin story obviously benefited the affluent 1800s Astors, who represent the epitome of “old money.” Born in 1830, Caroline Schermerhorn Astor — often simply called Mrs. Astor — was, dare we say, snobby. Per E!, she had power regarding who was accepted into the high society circle. Essentially, she ran a popularity contest among the elite. Having money didn’t make you a somebody.