[1] The Whitneys today continue to be involved in philanthropic efforts due to the wealth accumulated by past generations.

[2] Until the mid-20th century, successive generations of the Whitney family had a significant impact on American history.

[4] In 1844, Asa Whitney launched a campaign for a railway linking the country's west to the east that ultimately resulted in the first transcontinental railroad.

Upon taking office as U.S. Secretary of the Navy in 1885, William Collins Whitney oversaw the American fleet's widespread adoption of steel ships, an event essential to the United States becoming a leading world power.

During the 20th century, family members continued to exercise massive influence over the country's economy through conglomerates such as Pan Am, J.H.