The House of Rothschild

Ferguson has done the world a great service by examing the history and personalities of the Rothschild family and the financial empire. Both volumes of this work should be read. You'll soon see the bankers have as much influence and power over world events as politicians.

This was the second book that I purchased, out of order I know. I bought three total books on the Rothchild'sHistory get's very muddled, and I believe you will enjoy these books on the family that controlled or does control the world. Hint; I found out through these books how they dictated what countries would get their wars, through subsidizing them.Very interesting to learn about.

BOOK REVIEW: FERGUSON, Niall - The House of Rothschild: Volume 1: Money's Prophets: 1798-1848ASIN: B002VFPRVYRead March, 26 - April 22, 2017The Adventures of the Founding Family of Modern Capitalism.This first of two volumes on the history of The House of Rothschild, written by Harvard historian Niall Ferguson, presents original use of then newly available collections of private correspondence, which the author manages to fuse into his own writing in a clear and readable style, sparking his enthusiasm for his story into his readers’s minds. The frequent quoting of letters not only conveys a sense of familiarity with each Rothschild family member but offers precious glimpses of their individual personalities.In sixteen chapters grouped in three parts, this volume chronicles family history from the times of Father and Sons (chapters 1 to 2: the beginnings in the Frankfurt Ghetto; the dealings for William of Hesse during the Napoleonic Wars), through those of Brothers (chapters 3 to 11: the London House; dealings with treasury bonds; early Rothschild myths; the exodus from the Ghetto; relations with aristocratic society; political turmoil; financial effects of peace; the command of European finance; and Nathan’s sudden death), to the times of Uncles and Nephews (chapters 12 to 16: dynastic planning; Spain and America; diplomatic influence; railway investment in Continental Europe; and the 1848 Revolutions). The penultimate chapter, on railway expansion, particularly deserves praise for throwing new light upon the correct balance between the London and Paris Houses. The text is illustrated with graphs, tables, diagrams and figures; some sources are transcribed in the appendixes.Yet, if Ferguson suceeds in unmasking tales of financial tricks and in debunking myths and conspiracy theories, he seems more at ease with conspicuity, architecture, diplomacy and dynastic politics than with finance, failing to grasp, as most Rothschild detractors, how the Rothschilds created value. Arbitrage between currency markets is pointed to as an early business touchstone, and bonds markets’ price fluctuations and crises are narrated somewhat extensively. But a reader who falsely assumed the Rothschilds could only thrive in a bullish market would probably remain mistaken. The family’s role in funding the long 19th century peace is amply discussed, but scant comparison to other banks allows almost no insights about the role played by the family in shaping 19th century finance.Throughout the narrative, thrift updates of the partner’s agreements and the five banks’ capital increases are duly given, but explanations of operational structure and functioning are more frugal - many times, scarcity of sources is to blame. A sketch of the post-1815 diversification, one third in treasury bonds, one third in bills of exchange, leaves one third remaining, despite a brief mention of securities. Nothing is said about liquidity ratios, reserve policies, passive composition (whose was the money?), cash flows, liabilities and risks. Underwriting is mentioned, not explained; relationships with clients, almost forgotten; the servicing of European aristocracy and top bourgeoisie seems reduced to private banking for, and personal lending to, politicians.Despite the unanswered questions, I do recommend the book.

This fact-based book on the House of Rothschild is important for investment and financial professionakls in several respects:1. The turbulent period of their rise - from the Napoleonic War thru the Revolutions of 1848 - mirrors the current global shift to a multipolar world.2. The manner by which the Rothschild successfully navigated through this period, and the occasion mistakes made, can serve as great case studies for investors and financiers.

The writing is a little turgid, as academic studies often are. I was looking for more of a cultural history of the Rothschilds and this is very much a financial study which, as it's subtitle makes plain, only covers 50 years. But it is quite good at explaining how the Rothschild fortune began and what the family's business theory was. This is not the book you want if you are interested in the personalities and their lifestyles — although they are dealt with, but in a cursory manner. It is also somewhat repetitive, and can be skimmed to some extent if you are not an economist. Others, with other interests, may enjoy it more than I did.

For a 500 page history book, I was shocked that I could not put it down! The history of the family is nothing short of Amazing and Niall is one of my new favorite authors. His knowledge of the European history and history of the financial system adds significantly to the story. Debunked any inclinations I previously held of Rothschilds being Freemasons attempting to take over the world. Their agenda is clearly that of an ambitious investment banking family just trying to make money before their competitors beat them too it, and they do a great job! Nathan is a Genius that really set the family worlds apart from competitors. They use their power to progress the equality of Jews, but their success creates even more jealously and antisemitism. A shocking historical account useful for anyone looking to start a international banking dynasty or to just sit back and fell like you are part of the Rothschild's bank.

The author obviously had documented insight into the relationship between the Rothchild frere cinque, along with intimate knowledge of their financial dealings. His attempt to tie political, social and economic context meshes perfectly. To some, the financial dealings of these amazing brothers may appear dry, if not arcane. But history proves that economics is the true force that shapes any modern society. Therefore the author's panorama of all segments of historical events as viewed against the Rothchild's financial involvement rings true and effective. On point; how would Europe, and the world, have developed differently if the Rothchilds had not been effective in funding Wellington before facing Napoleon's superior forces?I am taking a short break from this lenghty treatise before diving into the next volume. But I am sure it will be similarly entertaining and informative.[...]

Great book, very informative, but you also need to have some background information. If your a history buff, or conspiracy theorist I highly recommend.