His mother was Gladys Guggenheim ( 1895 -- 1980 ) , heir to one of the largest fortunes in America .
Straus was born in New York City and was raised in a wealthy and influential Jewish family .
Straus ' mother was Gladys Guggenheim ( 1895 -- 1980 ) , heir to one of the largest fortunes in America .
Straus was born in New York City and was raised in a wealthy and influential Jewish family .