Astor Update: History Repeats Itself

I recently posted an update on the contest surrounding the estate of the late Mrs. Brooke Astor here. Fifty years ago, Mrs. Astor herself faced accusations similar to one of the accusations currently asserted against her son.  Note, however, that the accusations against Mrs. Astor were not criminal and were not nearly as serious.

Here is a summary of what happened: 

• Vincent Astor, Mrs. Astor’s husband, died in 1959, leaving a will.
• Vincent’s disinherited brother accused Mrs. Astor of asserting undue influence over her late husband by persuading him to change his will before his death. 
• Mrs. Astor defended herself by claiming that Vincent despised his slacker brother. 
• Mrs. Astor eventually settled the dispute for $250,000.

See John Eligon, Fight for Astor Estate Mirrors Battle 50 Years Ago, NY Times, April 25, 2009.