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The Ascent of Money

A Financial History of the World
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( 30,298 ratings, 1,980 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Ascent of Money by Niall Ferguson explores the history of finance, tracking how money and financial systems have evolved and shaped human progress. From ancient civilizations to modern economies, Ferguson examines the role of finances in global development, uncovering the successes and crises that have defined our economic landscape.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you have an interest in understanding the historical evolution of finance, from ancient times to modern-day economies. The author offers insightful analyses that link financial history to significant global events, making complex financial concepts accessible and engaging.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

In The Ascent of Money, renowned historian Niall Ferguson weaves a rich narrative that chronicles the remarkable evolution of finance, tracing its origins and exploring its profound impact on human civilisation. Delving into the intricate tapestry of economic history, Ferguson provides a comprehensive account of how money has been the driving force behind pivotal events and societal transformations throughout the ages.

Ferguson begins his exploration by examining the essential role of finance in sparking the Renaissance in Italy, where bankers and merchants thrived amidst a flourishing culture of innovation and artistry. Moving through the annals of history, he illuminates the creation of stock markets and the ensuing bubbles, such as the one that contributed to the French Revolution. By tracing the development of bonds and their significance in funding Britain's wartime efforts, Ferguson uncovers the deep link between financial instruments and global conflicts.

The narrative takes a turn to explore the devastating effects of financial collapses, exemplified by the Wall Street Crash of 1929 and the economic meltdown in contemporary times. Ferguson's acute analysis helps readers grasp the recurring cycles of boom and bust that have shaped, and often shattered, societies across centuries. By shedding light on the pivotal role of economic forces, Ferguson brings to life the otherwise abstract concept of money and its journey through history.

This new edition of The Ascent of Money is enriched with a major new chapter that delves into the first ten years following the Financial Crisis of 2008. Ferguson meticulously examines the causes and consequences of the crisis, providing crucial insights into the intricate mechanisms that led to one of the most tumultuous periods in modern economic history.

Whether you are deeply entrenched in the world of finance or simply seeking to understand the complexities behind the global economy, The Ascent of Money offers an unparalleled journey through the triumphs and tribulations of financial history. Ferguson's masterful storytelling and in-depth analysis make this an indispensable read for anyone intrigued by the power of money and its far-reaching influence on human progress.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Ascent of Money by Niall Ferguson is highly praised for its thorough and engaging exploration of the history of finance. Readers appreciate its clear writing and insightful analysis, making complex financial concepts accessible. Some critics note that while the book is comprehensive, it can be dense at times. Overall, it is considered an educational and thought-provoking read.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141990262

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 04 July 2019

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd

Illustration: 16 pp colour inset, integrated b/w

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 26.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 199.0mm

Weight: 408g

Pages: 560

About the Author

Niall Ferguson is one of Britain's most renowned historians. He is the Milbank Family Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University, a senior faculty fellow of the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard, and a visiting professor at Tsinghua University, Beijing. He is the author of fifteen books, including The Pity of War, The House of Rothschild, Empire, Civilization and Kissinger, 1923-1968- The Idealist, which won the Council on Foreign Relations Arthur Ross Prize. He is an award-making filmmaker, too, having won an international Emmy for his PBS series The Ascent of Money. His many other prizes include the Benjamin Franklin Prize for Public Service (2010), the Hayek Prize for Lifetime Achievement (2012) and the Ludwig Erhard Prize for Economic Journalism (2013). He was named Columnist of the Year at the 2018 British Press Awards.

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