The Robber Barons
The Robber Barons
Book Brief
Beta496
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 19th Century
1962
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Robber Barons by Matthew Josephson examines the lives and strategies of influential industrialists in late 19th-century America. The book explores how these individuals accumulated vast wealth and power, greatly impacting the country's economy and society. Josephson provides historical context and insights into the complex relationships between business leaders, government policies, and economic developments during this era.
Informative
Gritty
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
652 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Matthew Josephson's The Robber Barons is praised for its vivid portrayal of 19th-century American industrialists, shedding light on their ruthless business practices. The writing is engaging and detailed, though some criticize it for bias, presenting a largely negative view of its subjects. Overall, it's a compelling read for those interested in economic history.
Who Should Read The Robber Barons?
Readers who enjoy The Robber Barons by Matthew Josephson are typically history enthusiasts and scholars interested in American industrialization, economic history, and biographies of powerful figures like Rockefeller and Carnegie. Comparable books include The Prize by Daniel Yergin and Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin.
652 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Robber Barons was published in 1934 and became a key work in popularizing the term "robber barons" to describe the powerful industrialists of the late 19th century.
Author Matthew Josephson was inspired by the economic policies and figures of the Gilded Age and used a critical lens to highlight the monopolistic practices of the era.
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The book is considered a classic of American economic history and helped shape the public perception of figures like John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie.
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496
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 19th Century
1962
Adult
18+ years
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