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The Great Wave
552 pages, 1999
history
999 books
economics & politics
987 booksDavid Hackett Fischer, one of our most prominent historians, has garnered a reputation for making history come alive―even stories as familiar as Paul Revere's ride, or as complicated as the assimilation of British culture in North America.
Now, in The Great Wave, Fischer has done it again, marshaling an astonishing array of historical facts in lucid and compelling prose to outline a history of prices―the history of change, as Fischer puts it―covering the stunning sweep of Western history from the medieval glory of Chartres to the modern day.
Going far beyond the economic data, Fischer writes a powerful history of the people of the Western world: the economic patterns they lived in, and the politics, culture, and society they created as a result. Records of prices are more abundant than any other quantifiable data, and span the entire range of history, from tables of medieval grain prices to the overabundance of modern statistics. Fischer studies this wealth of data, creating a narrative encompassing all Western culture.
David Hackett Fischer explores the concept of 'price revolutions' in The Great Wave. These are long periods of inflation, often lasting a century or more. He digs into how these revolutions have shaped the world's economic, social, and political history.
Inflation isn't just about money. The Great Wave shows how it can lead to social unrest, political upheaval, and even war. It's a fascinating look at the ripple effects of economic change.
Fischer's research in The Great Wave uncovers patterns in history. He finds that periods of stability often follow these price revolutions. It's a reminder that even in times of chaos, there's hope for a return to calm.
Leadership matters, especially during times of economic change. The Great Wave explores how leaders have responded to price revolutions in the past. It's a great chance to see what worked, what didn't, and why.
The Great Wave isn't just a history book. It's a guide for understanding our own times. By looking at the past, we can better navigate the economic challenges of the present and future.
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