'Empire of Fortune' by Francis Jennings is a captivating exploration of the economic forces that shaped early America. Jennings delves into the complexities of wealth, power, and the impacts of colonialism on both the European settlers and Indigenous peoples. With rich historical insights and vivid storytelling, the book illuminates how fortune was both made and lost in the tumult of conflict and ambition. Readers are drawn into a world where fortunes are built on trade, land, and the tumultuous exchange of cultures. This compelling narrative invites readers to reflect on the origins of modern America and the legacies that still influence us today.
By Francis Jennings
Published: 1990
"In the tangled pursuit of wealth and power, every fortune tells a story of ambition, sacrifice, and the relentless march of history."
"A riveting, massively documented epic [that] overturns textbook clichés.... This impassioned study throws valuable light on our history." --Publishers Weekly
Francis Jennings was a prominent American historian, best known for his influential works on colonial America and early American history. His notable publications include 'The Creation of America: Through Revolution to Empire' and 'The Invasion of America: Indians, Colonialism, and the Cant of Conquest,' which critically examine the impact of European colonization on Indigenous peoples. Jennings' writing style is characterized by rigorous research and a compelling narrative that challenges traditional historical perspectives, highlighting the complexities of cultural interactions and the lasting consequences of colonialism.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "Tap Dancing to Work," acclaimed investor and business magnate Warren Buffett offers an intimate glimpse into his extraordinary life and investment philosophy. Through a collection of articles, interviews, and letters, he reveals the secrets behind his unmatched success and unorthodox approach to investing. With wit and wisdom, Buffett explores the intersection of finance and personal values, all while sharing anecdotes that humanize his legendary persona. This treasure trove of insights not only showcases his brilliant strategies but also encourages readers to embrace their passions and pursue lifelong learning. Discover how the “Oracle of Omaha” has danced through challenges and opportunities alike—an inspiring journey that invites you to reflect on your own path to success.
In "Conspiracy," a riveting exploration unfolds around one of the most infamous political scandals in American history. The narrative dives deep into the intricacies of power, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of truth, following a cast of characters driven by ambition and fear. With shocking revelations and unexpected twists, the author challenges readers to question what they think they know about truth and deception. As allegiances shift and secrets are laid bare, the story reflects on the fine line between justice and vengeance. Prepare for a thought-provoking journey that will leave you pondering the shadows lurking behind every conspiracy.
In 'Finite and Infinite Games', James Carse presents a thought-provoking exploration of two types of games that shape our lives. Finite games are about winning, clearly defined rules, and competition, while infinite games focus on the ongoing pursuit of growth and learning. This philosophical masterpiece challenges readers to rethink their motivations and the very nature of their existence. As Carse reveals the deeper implications of each game, it invites you to ponder whether you are living for a trophy or the journey itself. Prepare to be inspired to redefine success in a world dominated by finite thinking!
In 'The Dhandho Investor', Mohnish Pabrai unveils the secrets of value investing through the lens of the Dhandho philosophy, rooted in the principles of Indian entrepreneurship. He emphasizes the importance of a low-risk, high-uncertainty approach that allows investors to maximize gains while minimizing potential losses. By sharing insightful anecdotes and the strategies of legendary investors like Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, Pabrai encourages readers to rethink conventional investing wisdom. As he navigates the fascinating intersections of culture and finance, you'll discover how to harness the power of relentless focus and strategic decision-making. This book not only challenges your investment perspective but also invites you to question your own approach to wealth creation.
In 'Financial Shenanigans,' the authors unveil the art of identifying accounting tricks that can mislead investors and stakeholders. They provide detailed insights into the deceptive practices that companies often employ to present a misleading financial picture. Each chapter reveals real-world examples, equipping readers with tools to spot financial fraud before it’s too late. As financial reports become increasingly complex, this guide shines a light on the dark corners of corporate accounting. Are you prepared to uncover the hidden truths lurking within financial statements?
In 'Open', Andre Agassi unveils the raw and unfiltered story of his rise and struggles in the world of professional tennis. Beyond the court, he grapples with personal demons, the burden of expectations, and the quest for identity. Agassi's candid reflections challenge the glamour often associated with sports, revealing the price of greatness. With vivid storytelling, he immerses readers into the psyche of a champion, showcasing moments of triumph and despair. This memoir compels us to question the true meaning of success and the sacrifices made along the way.
In 'Collusion Across the Jordan,' Avi Shlaim unveils the intricate and often hidden relationships between Israel and Jordan during pivotal moments in Middle Eastern history. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, he reveals how political maneuvering and shared interests have shaped the narratives of both nations. The book challenges conventional wisdom and encourages readers to reconsider the complexities of Arab-Israeli relations. Shlaim's insights highlight the impact of diplomacy and secret agreements that influenced the region's fate. Prepare for a journey that intertwines history, politics, and the human spirit in ways that will leave you questioning the very foundations of contemporary geopolitics.
In 'The Man Who Mistook His Wife For A Hat,' renowned neurologist Oliver Sacks delves into the intricate worlds of his patients, each with unique and perplexing neurological disorders. Through a series of captivating clinical tales, he explores the profound connection between mind and behavior, unveiling the mysteries of the human brain. The titular case of the man who mistakes his wife for a hat highlights the surreal experiences of those affected by cognitive dysfunction. Sacks invites readers to ponder the nature of identity and perception, raising questions about what it means to be truly human. This thought-provoking work is both a compelling exploration of neurology and a celebration of the resilience of the human spirit.
Showing 8 of 30 similar books

Paul Graham is a prominent programmer, venture capitalist, and essayist known for his influential work in the tech startup ecosystem. He co-founded Viaweb, one of the first web-based applications, which was later acquired by Yahoo! and became Yahoo! Store. As a co-founder of Y Combinator, Graham has been instrumental in funding and mentoring numerous successful startups, including Dropbox, Airbnb, and Reddit. His essays, collected in books such as "Hackers & Painters," offer profound insights into technology, entrepreneurship, and philosophy, making significant contributions to modern literature on these subjects. Graham's blend of technical expertise and thought leadership has made him a pivotal figure in both the tech and literary communities.

Satya Nadella is the CEO of Microsoft, a position he has held since 2014, significantly transforming the company into a leader in cloud computing and artificial intelligence. Under his leadership, Microsoft's market value has surged, and the company has embraced a more open and innovative culture. Nadella is also the author of "Hit Refresh," a book that explores the principles and strategies behind Microsoft's cultural and technological renaissance. His writings provide insights into leadership, empathy, and the impact of technology on society. Nadella's vision and guidance have positioned Microsoft at the forefront of the tech industry, making him a highly influential figure in modern business and technology discourse.

Brandon Stanton is an American photographer and author, best known for creating Humans of New York, a photography project that shares the personal stories of everyday people. Through his portraits and interviews, Stanton captures the diverse experiences of people in New York City and around the world, offering intimate insights into their lives. Humans of New York has become a global phenomenon, with millions of followers on social media and several best-selling books. Stanton’s work has expanded beyond photography to include fundraising campaigns that have raised millions of dollars for individuals and charitable causes. His ability to connect with people and share their stories has made him one of the most impactful storytellers of his generation.

Marc Andreessen is an American entrepreneur, software engineer, and venture capitalist, best known for co-creating the Mosaic web browser, the first widely-used web browser, and co-founding Netscape. Andreessen is also the co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, one of Silicon Valley’s most prominent venture capital firms, where he invests in groundbreaking technology companies like Facebook, Airbnb, and Coinbase. He is a thought leader on the impact of technology and innovation, often sharing his views on the future of the internet and startups. His contributions to the development of the web and the tech ecosystem have made him one of the most influential figures in technology.

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.

Alex Honnold is an American professional rock climber, best known for his free solo ascent of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a feat that was documented in the Oscar-winning film Free Solo. Honnold is renowned for his mental toughness, technical skill, and ability to climb without ropes or safety equipment. His accomplishments have made him a legend in the climbing world, and he continues to push the boundaries of the sport. Outside of climbing, Honnold is a philanthropist, founding the Honnold Foundation, which supports environmental sustainability projects, particularly in solar energy.

Alexey Moiseenkov is a Russian entrepreneur and tech innovator best known for creating Prisma, the groundbreaking mobile app that transforms photos into artworks using artificial intelligence. Though not primarily a literary figure, his work in AI and digital transformation has influenced contemporary discussions on the intersection of technology and art. Moiseenkov's contributions have been featured in various tech and innovation journals, highlighting his impact on modern digital culture. His work underscores the evolving narrative of creativity in the digital age, bridging the gap between artistic expression and technological advancement. Moiseenkov continues to inspire through his ongoing ventures in AI and entrepreneurship.
Showing 8 of 16 related collections
“In the tangled pursuit of wealth and power, every fortune tells a story of ambition, sacrifice, and the relentless march of history.”
Empire of Fortune
By Francis Jennings
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.