And, for that, Leland Stanford, as president of the Central Pacific Railroad Company of California, would get high marks. Leland Stanford proved himself to be an astute and savvy businessman, and a pretty good manager. He clearly knew how to get things done. I would also be impressed with his political record and popularity with the voters of California. Looking at his business history, I would note his and his brothers' successful mercantile businesses in California and his innovations in raising trotting horses.
Most successful entrepreneurs can articulate their vision in a few sentences.
I have no doubt. It will all come down to vision. In the venture capital business, it is the people with passion and vision who get the bucks, providing they display maturity and leadership. And I would suggest the Stanfords had those attributes in excess. Let me first reject hubris or ego, which I have seen in many unsuccessful entrepreneurs.