logo
pagesback-cover
181
Reddit meter
all mentions

The House of Morgan

848 pages, 2010

business & management

business & management

1082 books
economics & politics

economics & politics

987 books
money & investing

money & investing

165 books
history

history

999 books
Takeaways
Description

Published to critical acclaim twenty years ago, and now considered a classic, The House of Morgan is the most ambitious history ever written about American finance. It is a rich, panoramic story of four generations of Morgans and the powerful, secretive firms they spawned, ones that would transform the modern financial world. 

Tracing the trajectory of J. P. Morgan’s empire from its obscure beginnings in Victorian London to the financial crisis of 1987, acclaimed author Ron Chernow paints a fascinating portrait of the family’s private saga and the rarefied world of the American and British elite in which they moved—a world that included Charles Lindbergh, Henry Ford, Franklin Roosevelt, Nancy Astor, and Winston Churchill. 

A masterpiece of financial history—it was awarded the 1990 National Book Award for Nonfiction and selected by the Modern Library as one of the 100 Best Nonfiction Books of the Twentieth Century—The House of Morgan is a compelling account of a remarkable institution and the men who ran it, and an essential book for understanding the money and power behind the major historical events of the last 150 years. 

The Power of Financial Institutions

In 'The House of Morgan', Ron Chernow explores the immense influence of financial institutions. He shows how the Morgan bank, from its inception, played a significant role in shaping the global economy. It's a fascinating look into the world of finance and its impact on politics and society.

The Evolution of Banking

Chernow takes us on a journey through the evolution of banking, from the era of J.P. Morgan to the modern financial world. He shows how banking has transformed over the years, and how the Morgan bank adapted to these changes. It's a great read if you're interested in the history of banking and finance.

The Role of Personalities in Business

The book also highlights the importance of personalities in business. Chernow paints vivid portraits of the key figures in the Morgan bank, showing how their personalities and decisions shaped the institution. It's a reminder that behind every business, there are people with their own strengths, weaknesses, and quirks.

The Intersection of Finance and Politics

Chernow digs into the complex relationship between finance and politics. He shows how the Morgan bank was not just a financial institution, but also a political power. This book will make you see the world of finance in a new light, and understand its role in shaping political events.

The Ethical Dilemmas in Banking

Finally, 'The House of Morgan' explores the ethical dilemmas in banking. Chernow doesn't shy away from discussing the controversies and scandals that have plagued the Morgan bank. It's a thought-provoking look into the moral challenges in the world of finance, and a reminder that every institution, no matter how powerful, has its flaws.

Recommendations

1
authorPaul Graham

Paul Graham

entrepreneurtechnologyventure capitalistauthor

The House of Morgan found in libraries

1
372 books

Best History Books

Learn about the history of your nation and the entire world with the Best History Books you can find.