Ever since the signature of the Declaration of Independence, wealthy Americans have played a significant part in U.S. politics. Many have sought public office during their lives, some before and some after their meteoric rise to economic prominence.

The influence wealthy Americans have on politics far exceeds their direct implication as public office holders, as  their financial contributions to campaigns and lobbies as well as their social network magnifies their political reach.

But in many cases, politics and influence on public office holders also have been an essential factor in the economic success of American tycoons. This is specially true wherever the disposal of the public domain is concerned, like in the 19th century railroad construction.