History

A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson

Read more on Amazon Read my other book notes Rating: Must Read Language: English Summary Bryson has written a fascinating, enthralling, accessible book on the history of the natural sciences, covering topics as diverse as cosmology, quantum physics, paleontology and chemistry. Complement it with Sapiens (anthropology), ​The Lessons of History (society, politics, economy) and Genome …

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The Power Broker by Robert Caro

Read more on Amazon Read my other book notes Rating: Recommended Reading Language: English Summary This massive 1200-page biography has won every award imaginable and for good reason. Robert Moses shaped the physical nature of New York for 40+ years and his influence is felt around the world. This book covers his ascent, control and …

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The Tycoons by Charles Morris

Read more on Amazon Read my other book notes Rating: Recommended Reading Language: English Summary Great historical overview of Carnegie, Rockefeller, Gould and J.P. Morgan, their businesses and the times they lived in. Key Takeaways What I got out of it Summary Notes Preface Carnegie, Rockefeller, and Gould tapped into the national predilection for speed, …

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The Evolution of Everything: How New Ideas Emerge by Matt Ridley

Read more on Amazon Read my other book notes Rating: Optional Books Language: English Summary The flywheel of history is incremental change through trial and error, with innovation driven by recombination. A decentralised, bottom-up, trade-centric approach leads to more innovation, prosperity and less violence. Interesting read, but ridden with confirming anecdotal evidence. Key Takeaways What …

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