The Richest People In America: John Kluge

©AP Photos/Bebeto Matthews

#32 John Kluge

$9.0 billion
Source: Metromedia

Tough year for onetime world's richest man. His Bennigan's and Steak & Ale restaurant chains filed for bankruptcy in July as food prices continue to soar. German immigrant bought $4 million stake in Metropolitan Broadcasting Corp. 1959, renamed Metromedia 1961. Invested in independent television stations. Amassed fortune, started building restaurant empire with proceeds in 1988. Sold to WorldCom for $1.3 billion in 2001. Further diversified into medical devices, technology, peanuts. Donated $400 million to Columbia U. last year; fourth-largest gift ever to an educational institution; money put toward financial aid. Collector of aboriginal art, supports Library of Congress.

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