1. Inheritance: Many wealthy Victorians inherited their fortunes from their parents or other relatives. In fact, it was estimated that as much as 80% of the wealth in Victorian Britain was inherited. This meant that those who were born into rich families were able to maintain their wealth without having to work for it.
2. Land ownership: Another way that the rich Victorians stayed rich was through land ownership. Owning land was seen as a safe and secure investment, and many wealthy Victorians invested heavily in property. This not only provided them with a steady stream of income, but also increased in value over time.
3. Investments in industry: The Victorian era was a time of great industrial growth, and many wealthy Victorians invested in new businesses and industries. This could be anything from factories and mines to railroads and shipping companies. These investments often paid off handsomely, and helped the rich Victorians to increase their wealth.
4. Frugal living: Despite their wealth, many rich Victorians lived relatively frugal lives. They were careful not to overspend, and they often saved money by investing in simple, durable goods. This allowed them to accumulate and maintain their wealth over time.
5. Government policies: The government policies of the Victorian era also helped to support the wealth of the rich. For example, the government imposed high tariffs on imported goods, which made it more difficult for foreign businesses to compete with British businesses. This helped to protect the profits of British businesses, and it also made it more difficult for the poor to buy imported goods.
6. Marriage alliances: Wealthy Victorian families often used marriage alliances to secure their wealth and status. By marrying into other wealthy families, they were able to pool their resources and increase their overall wealth. This also helped to create a closed circle of wealthy families who shared similar interests and values.
By using these strategies, the rich Victorians were able to stay rich and pass on their wealth to their descendants.