The Richest People In America: Jim Walton

©AP Photo/April L. Brown

#4 Jim Walton

$23.4 billion
Source: Wal-Mart (nyse: WMT - news - people )

Son of Wal-Mart pioneer Sam Walton (d. 1992) and siblings, sister-in-law reclaim spot in Forbes 400 Top 10 after falling off last year. Wal-Mart shares up 45% since last September, as cash-strapped consumers head to discount-driven superstores in droves. Also profiting from stake in solar-paneling outfit First Solar; shares up 120% in past 12 months. Sam started as J.C. Penney (nyse: JCP - news - people ) clerk in 1940; opened Newport, Ark. five-and-dime store Benjamin Franklin 5 years later. Lost lease in 1950. With brother James started general-store chain in Bentonville, Ark., 1962. Today Wal-Mart is world's largest retailer: 7,300 stores, 2 million employees serve 200 million customers. Sales: $378 billion. Jim chairs Arvest Bank Group, Community Publishers.

Complete List The Richest People In America

Related Posts by Category