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They Went From Riches to Rags: How the Vanderbilts Lost It All

Princess Diana’s Connection

James Spencer-Churchill is a surviving member of the Vanderbilt family and has made a name for himself across the pond. Yes, he is also a member of the Spencer family, meaning he is not only part of the Vanderbilt lineage, but also has some royal blood. He is related to Winston Churchill and Prince Charles’ late ex-wife, Princess Diana.

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The Duke of Marlborough. Photo by Graham Wiltshire / Shutterstock

Despite his family background, he was born after the Vanderbilt family wealth dwindled and is not an heir to the throne. Luckily, he didn’t need it. In his younger years, James was recognized as the Earl of Sunderland, before taking on the Marquess of Blandford title. But nowadays, he is known as The Duke of Marlborough.