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Open An empire of wealth : the epic history of American economic power
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An empire of wealth : the epic history of American economic power

John Steele Gordon

23 pages52 min

The text traces the economic evolution of the United States from its colonial origins to the early 21st century, highlighting how a vast wilderness transformed into a global economic superpower. It emphasizes the roles of innovation, foundational legal traditions, and resilient institutions in overcoming crises like the Great Depression and Civil War. Key developments include the rise of tobacco, cod fishing, and industrial sectors like steel and oil, alongside infrastructure projects such as canals and railroads. The narrative also covers the shift from a debtor to a creditor nation, the impact of world wars, and the digital revolution, all while examining challenges like slavery, financial panics, and the persistent tension between capital and labor.