The Jerome Family and Society

In 1873, Jenny Jerome and Lord Randolph Churchill's engagement marked a significant change in British aristocracy. Jenny, born to Leonard and Clara Jerome in Brooklyn, was part of a family seeking social advancement. Leonard, a Wall Street speculator, amassed and lost fortunes, living extravagantly. Despite their wealth, the Jeromes faced social barriers from the Knickerbockers, an elite group in New York. Clara Jerome, determined to secure better prospects for her daughters, decided to take them to Europe.

What event led to the meeting of Jenny Jerome and Lord Randolph Churchill?

• A political rally

• A theater performance

• A ball

• A family dinner

Where was Jenny Jerome born?

• London

• Brooklyn

• Boston

• Paris

What was Leonard Jerome's profession?

• A banker

• A Wall Street speculator

• A lawyer

• A politician

What was the estimated worth of Leonard Jerome by the early 1860s?

• $20 million

• $10 million

• $15 million

• $5 million

What unique feature did the Jerome family's mansion have?

• A rooftop garden

• A personal art gallery

• A 600 seat opera house

• A private zoo

What was the main goal of Clara Jerome for her daughters?

• To become famous artists

• To marry into high society

• To start a business

• To travel the world

How did Leonard Jerome feel about not being included in the fanciest balls?

• He was angry

• He was indifferent

• He was upset

• He was relieved

What derogatory term was used for new money families like the Jeromes?

• The parvenus

• The social climbers

• The chip chop aristocracy

• The nouveau riche

What was the relationship between Leonard Jerome and Cornelius Vanderbilt?

• Business partners

• Rivals

• Family

• Friends

Why did Clara Jerome decide to take her daughters to Europe?

• To escape financial troubles

• To find better marriage prospects

• To start a new business

• To explore new cultures