Description
Book SynopsisA gripping and fast-paced narrative, Pulizer Prize winner Michael Hiltzik tells the story of the titanic battle between two giants of the Gilded Age, JP Morgan and EH Harriman, as they fought for control of the nationâs railways and reshaped American industry.
Trade Review'Were the railroad barons of the 19th century great entrepreneurs in the American spirit who built a remarkable network of railroads? Or were they robbers who fleeced local people and passengers alike? In this superb and comprehensive book, Hiltzik lets you decide, with the help of a few hints.' -- Christian Wolmar, author the Great Railroad Revolution
'Unbridled ambition, greed, corruption, ‘creative destruction,’ and a bit of conscience – Michael Hiltzik’s vivid account of the railroad barons in the Gilded Age shows us the workings of unbridled capitalism at its zenith (or nadir, as the case may be). The names Morgan, Harriman, Pullman, Hill, Villard, Rockefeller will forever be associated with creating America’s first great infrastructure and making America ‘modern.’' -- Gordon H. Chang, author of Ghosts of Gold Mountain: The Epic Story of the Chinese Who Built the Transcontinental Railroad
'This prodigiously researched book tells the fascinating stories of the railroad barons who did so much to build America, not only through their vision and genius, but also through their cunning and ruthlessness. Hiltzik’s brilliant narrative – of power and plutocrats – often bears uncanny parallels to what’s happening in America today.' -- Steven Greenhouse, author of Beaten Down, Worked Up: The Past, Present and Future of American Labor
