After World War I, many family members withdrew from the businesses and became involved in philanthropy, especially in the arts, aviation, medicine, and culture.

Meyer Guggenheim, a Swiss citizen of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, arrived in the United States in 1847.

[4] Family members became known for their philanthropy in diverse areas such as modern art, aviation, and medicine.

They had 11 children together, including eight sons, five of whom were active in the family businesses: Isaac, Daniel, Maurice ("Murry"), Solomon Robert, and (John) Simon Guggenheim.

Meyer's 11 children, their spouses, and notable descendants are shown below: The following is a list of businesses in which the Guggenheim family have held a controlling or otherwise significant interest.