Robert Barkley Shaw was born in 1845 in New York City. He was the son of a wealthy merchant and banker, and was educated at the prestigious Columbia College. After graduating, he joined the Union Army during the Civil War, serving as a lieutenant in the 5th New York Infantry. He was wounded in battle and received a promotion to captain.
After the war, Shaw returned to New York and became a successful businessman. He was a partner in a number of companies, including the New York Stock Exchange, and was a director of several banks. He was also a philanthropist, donating to numerous charities and causes.
In 1876, Shaw was appointed as the first president of the newly formed National Bank of the Republic. He was instrumental in the bank's success, and it quickly became one of the most powerful financial institutions in the country. He also served as a director of the New York Life Insurance Company and the New York Central Railroad.
In 1881, Shaw was appointed as the first president of the newly formed American Bankers Association. He was a strong advocate for banking reform and helped to create the Federal Reserve System. He also served as a director of the New York Stock Exchange and the New York Clearing House.
Shaw was a prominent figure in the banking industry and was highly respected by his peers. He was a leader in the banking reform movement and was a major proponent of the gold standard. He was also a strong advocate for the rights of African Americans, and was a major supporter of the NAACP.
Shaw was a major figure in the banking industry until his death in 1906. He was a leader in the banking reform movement and was a major proponent of the gold standard. He was also a strong advocate for the rights of African Americans, and was a major supporter of the NAACP. His legacy lives on today, as he is remembered as one of the most influential figures in the history of banking.