Alva Vanderbilt had an ace up her sleeve – a way to not simply regain her standing, but to improve it. The scheme depended largely on her daughter, Consuelo, who had just reached marrying age.

While traveling in Europe, Alva had arranged for Consuelo to meet the Duke of Marlborough, one of the most eligible bachelors among the British aristocracy.

Learn more about THE GILDED AGE, including where to watch the documentary: https://to.pbs.org/2E1N0Tf