In 'The Ascent of Money,' Niall Ferguson traces the history of finance from ancient times to the modern era, revealing how money has shaped civilizations. Through captivating anecdotes and insightful analysis, he explores the rise of banking, credit, and investment, shedding light on their profound impacts on society. Each chapter unveils the intertwining of economics with history, politics, and global events, compelling readers to rethink the role of finance in shaping our world. Ferguson daringly argues that understanding finance is crucial to comprehending our past and navigating our future. This compelling narrative promises to be a thought-provoking journey into the unseen forces of wealth and power.
By Niall Ferguson
Published: 2009
""The history of money is the history of civilization itself; without finance, there can be no progress, and understanding its evolution is key to grasping our past and shaping our future.""
Chronicles the evolution of finance from its origins in Mesopotamia to the modern world's most recent upheavals, covering such topics as the stock market bubble that prompted the French Revolution and the theories behind common investment vehicles.
Showing 8 of 25 similar books
David Heinemeier Hansson, also known as DHH, is a Danish programmer, entrepreneur, and author, best known as the creator of Ruby on Rails, a popular web application framework. Heinemeier Hansson is also a partner at Basecamp, a project management and collaboration software company he co-founded. His contributions to software development have earned him widespread recognition, with Ruby on Rails being used by thousands of developers and companies worldwide. Heinemeier Hansson is also a vocal advocate for remote work, simplicity in business, and sustainable work practices, ideas he explores in his bestselling books Rework and It Doesn’t Have to Be Crazy at Work. In addition to his work in tech, he is an accomplished race car driver, having competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Heinemeier Hansson’s approach to work-life balance and entrepreneurship has made him a thought leader in the tech community, where he continues to challenge traditional business practices and advocate for more human-centered approaches to work
Charlie Munger is an American investor, businessman, and philanthropist, best known as the vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, where he partners with Warren Buffett. Renowned for his insights on investment strategies and mental models, Munger has significantly influenced the world of finance. His notable literary contributions include "Poor Charlie's Almanack," a compilation of his speeches and writings that distill his wisdom on decision-making and business principles. Munger's work emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary thinking and continuous learning. Beyond his financial acumen, he is celebrated for his charitable efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.
Ray Dalio is the founder of Bridgewater Associates, one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world. He is also the author of the bestselling book Principles, where he outlines his philosophy on life, leadership, and investing. Ray is renowned for his unique approach to transparency, radical truth, and thoughtful disagreement within organizations. His insights into economics and investing have made him one of the most influential figures in the financial world. Dalio continues to be a thought leader in business, economics, and philanthropy.
Ben Shapiro is an American conservative political commentator, author, and lawyer, known for his sharp analytical skills and outspoken views. He graduated from UCLA at the age of 20 and Harvard Law School at 23, demonstrating his early intellectual prowess. Shapiro is the author of several best-selling books including "Bullies: How the Left's Culture of Fear and Intimidation Silences Americans" and "The Right Side of History: How Reason and Moral Purpose Made the West Great." He is the co-founder and editor emeritus of The Daily Wire, a popular conservative news and opinion website. Through his writing and media presence, Shapiro has significantly influenced contemporary political discourse in the United States.
Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
Jamie Dimon is an American business executive, best known as the Chairman and CEO of JPMorgan Chase, one of the largest and most influential financial institutions in the world. Dimon has led JPMorgan through multiple economic crises, including the 2008 financial crash, and has consistently been recognized for his leadership in the banking industry. Under his tenure, JPMorgan has grown into a global financial powerhouse, focusing on innovation and sustainability. Dimon is also an advocate for corporate responsibility and frequently speaks on economic and regulatory issues. His leadership style and strategic insights have earned him widespread respect in the business world.
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
Ashton Kutcher is an accomplished actor, producer, and entrepreneur best known for his roles in popular television series such as "That '70s Show" and "Two and a Half Men." While not primarily recognized for contributions to literature, Kutcher has significantly impacted the tech industry through his venture capital firm, A-Grade Investments, which has funded successful startups like Airbnb and Uber. Additionally, he co-founded the media company Katalyst, which has produced various digital content. Kutcher is also an active philanthropist, co-founding the DNA Foundation, now known as Thorn, which focuses on combating human trafficking and the sexual exploitation of children. His diverse ventures reflect a commitment to innovation, social good, and entertainment.
Showing 8 of 12 related collections
“"The history of money is the history of civilization itself; without finance, there can be no progress, and understanding its evolution is key to grasping our past and shaping our future."”
The Ascent of Money
By Niall Ferguson
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Niall Ferguson is a prominent historian, author, and broadcaster known for his work examining the interplay of economics, history, and politics. Born in 1964 in Glasgow, Scotland, he has served as a professor at prestigious institutions such as Harvard University and the University of Oxford. Ferguson's notable works include 'The Ascent of Money', 'Empire: The Rise and Demise of the British World Order', and 'The Square and the Tower', where he analyzes complex historical narratives with a keen insight into economic forces shaping societies. His writing style is characterized by rigorous scholarship combined with a compelling narrative, making complex historical themes accessible to a wide audience. Ferguson frequently explores themes of imperialism, finance, and the impact of technology on historical events.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Lessons of History," Will and Ariel Durant distill the sweeping narrative of human civilization into profound insights that span cultures and epochs. They explore the recurring themes of war, economics, religion, and human nature that shape our collective journey. With razor-sharp clarity, the Durants argue that the past holds invaluable lessons that can guide our present and future decisions. What patterns emerge when we closely examine the ebb and flow of societies? This thought-provoking work invites readers to reflect on the intricacies of humanity's story and consider how we might navigate the path ahead.
In 'The Limits of State Action', Wilhelm von Humboldt challenges the conventional role of government in individual lives, arguing for the primacy of personal freedom and self-development. He articulates a vision of a society where the state should limit its intervention, allowing individuals to flourish in their pursuits. Humboldt's philosophy emphasizes the importance of diverse experiences and the cultivation of individuality, inviting readers to rethink their views on authority and autonomy. With a blend of political philosophy and humanistic ideals, this work remains a profound exploration of the tension between freedom and governance. Dive in to discover how his insights resonate in today's debates about state overreach and personal liberty.
In 'The History of the Decline & Fall of the Roman Empire,' Edward Gibbon meticulously chronicles the mighty empire's descent into chaos and obscurity. With eloquent prose, Gibbon unveils the interplay of political intrigue, moral decay, and military defeats that eroded Rome's power. His analysis does not merely recount events but delves into the philosophical implications of decline and the lessons for future societies. As empires rise and fall, engage with the timeless questions Gibbon poses about civilization itself. Dive into this monumental work to understand how history shapes our present and future.
In 'Reasons and Persons,' Derek Parfit delves into the intricate nature of identity, morality, and rationality. He challenges conventional notions of self and argues that personal identity is not as fixed as we believe. Parfit's exploration raises tantalizing questions about what it means to be a person and how our decisions shape our lives. With compelling thought experiments, he invites readers to reconsider their beliefs about ethics and future generations. This groundbreaking work leaves an indelible mark on philosophical thought, compelling us to reflect deeply on our choices and connections.
In 'A History of Economic Theory', Jürg Niehans takes readers on a captivating journey through the evolution of economic thought. From ancient philosophies to contemporary paradigms, the book unravels how ideas have shaped economic practices across cultures and eras. With each chapter, Niehans reveals the intellectual battles and breakthroughs that have defined the discipline. Rich in historical context, this work challenges readers to consider the relevance of past theories in today's economy. Dive into this scholarly adventure and discover how the past continually influences our understanding of wealth and value.
In 'A Brief History of Everything', Ken Wilber takes readers on an enlightening journey through the evolution of consciousness and the unfolding of human history. He skillfully weaves together insights from philosophy, science, and spirituality, offering a holistic perspective on our existence. Discover how various cultural paradigms intersect and influence our understanding of reality. This thought-provoking exploration challenges conventional views and invites readers to contemplate their place in the cosmos. What if the key to our future lies in understanding the past in a radically new way?
In 'Wallflower at the Orgy', Nora Ephron invites readers into her witty and candid world of Hollywood, exploring the glitz, glamour, and the sobering truths behind the scenes. Through her sharp observations and humorous anecdotes, she reflects on the absurdities of life in the spotlight while grappling with the complexities of love, friendship, and ambition. Ephron's distinctive voice shines as she navigates the cultural landscape, revealing how laughter can often mask deeper emotions. This memoir not only illuminates her own journey but also the ever-elusive quest for connection amidst chaos. Will Ephron find solace in the midst of the orgy, or is she destined to remain a wallflower?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
