Empire of Fortune

'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."

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What Readers Say About This Book

"A riveting, massively documented epic [that] overturns textbook clichés.... This impassioned study throws valuable light on our history." --Publishers Weekly

About the Author

F

Francis Jennings

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.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Francis Jennings
Published
January 1990
Publisher
W. W. Norton & Company
ISBN
0393306402
Language
English
Pages
552
Genres
American HistoryHistoryEconomic Policy

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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