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Money’s Prophets 1798–1848

We all strive for money, and ways to survive.

Rothschilds realized that people will always be in need of financing and increasing their wealth.

Therefore, their banking business continues to support various causes, for certain compensation.

Who Should Read “The House Of Rothschild”? And Why?

The bottom line is that banks and corporations are on the top of the world. Their agenda spreads like wildfire, and the Rothschilds knew this fact – two centuries ago.

“The House of Rothschild” is an amazing book suited for various profiles of people who want to understand the banking business and its impact on the world economy.

About Niall Ferguson

Niall Ferguson can be labeled as an author, tutor at Jesus College – Oxford University, and a political commentator who uses his knowledge and expertise to dig deep and discover unvarnished stories and truths.

“The House Of Rothschild Summary”

If you haven’t heard of The Rothschild family, you probably need some schooling. Not only that Rothschild was (and still is) one of the wealthiest families in the history of the world, but it was also highly influential in politics and other spheres.  

The real question is – How can we explain that expansion and success? It all started with Mayer Amschel Rothschild (1744-1812). As a father and a Jew living in Germany, he didn’t have a flying start, but a step-by-step growth and vision.

Anti-Semitism was ever-present in those days, and Jews not only in Frankfurt but throughout Europe faced constant discrimination in matters of arts, economics, law, politics by anti-Jewish individuals.

At the beginning of the 19th century, Rothschild was literally one of the wealthiest members of that community – owing his success to banking.

According to some testimonies, Rothschild at the height of his success often had a large pile of money lying around on his desk, or on the floor.

Mayer Amschel Rothschild established a large base of influential clients, among them were William IX, Hereditary Prince, Landgrave and many others.

By the time Napoleon launched a massive campaign on Tsar’s Russia, he already planned to annihilate Hesse-Kassel’s army and influence. William was left with two options – to fight or to flee, he chose the second one.

What does that have anything to do with Rothschild? The first branch of Rothschild’s banks was responsible for financing wars and managing the investments of few privileged individuals – which was also the case with William.

These contacts and investments laid the foundations for successful business endeavors in all parts of Europe, starting with London, England. Nathan Rothschild seized the moment and expanded the banking business abroad, which will later turn out to be the beginning of Rothschild’s imperialistic reign.

By the time Nathan, launched the business on British soil – located in London, Mayer Amschel passed away, and his five sons succeeded him after his death.

Three days after becoming ill, Mayer Amschel Rothschild passed away, leaving a financial legacy to his sons, which continued the business. In his testament, Mayer Amschel declared that his sons must continue expanding as one – in a union.

By the 1830s, the Rothschilds had already positioned themselves above the Baring Brothers & Co, with an astonishing £4 million in wealth.

Ever since, many European governments, in need of capital demanded financing from the Rothschild banks, to cover their expenses. The mass loan campaign began under the baton of the Rothschilds.

Rothschilds were no strangers to war, and after the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815) France, alongside the “Holy Alliance” and Confederate army formed by Austria, Russia had to rebuild and reestablish the economy, which was severely damaged during the clash.

So, how did the Rothschild’s banks gain profit from the situation? – The first thing was to demand payment up to eight percent, via commissions and the other one – rarely used, was to exploit the rapid fluctuations of not just the economy but the exchange rates.

The 19th century brought new more sophisticated methods for the bankers and numerous ways of making money. It was just a matter of time when all politicians would require a certain favor in terms of information or a hint such as “when a loan is required.”

The Rothschilds felt no hesitation to join the political circle, and in doing so, they became close allies with important figures from all European countries and unions. The political elite was aware of Rothschilds’ wealth and influence, and in order to gain their favor, they granted them many privileges.

The Rothschild brothers tried to persuade their friends in politics, to give the Jews equal civil rights and elevate their status.

Salomon Rothschild signed a petition in order to inform Metternich and the Prussian chancellor Hardenberg about the Jewish Cause; driven by an urge to improve the Jewish rights in all European countries.

The survival of the 1848 crash gave the Rothschilds a new motivation and passion for facing obstacles and maintaining stability even when the odds are against them.

Key Lessons from “The House Of Rothschild”

1.      Arts – a source of superiority
2.      It’s not just about making money but enjoying the process
3.      New times, new measures

Arts – a source of superiority

The Rothschilds surely realized the value of entertainment and the availability of sources that can always provide prestige and admiration.

In such regards, they began focusing on arts and collecting masterpieces for personal interest.

It’s not just about making money but enjoying the process

Due to their political strength and financial independence, they supported many composers, not just financially but morally as well.

According to their beliefs and understanding, good music is an absolute victory during hardship and war.

New times, new measures

Their business took a sudden turn when Nathan as the head of the Rothschild family decided to enter a new kind of “financial entertainment.”

Industrialism and the railway construction marked the beginning of a new era, vital for the family and its influence.

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“The House Of Rothschild” Quotes

Our Critical Review

The House of Rothschild continues its reign to this very day.

We encourage to give this book a try and to discover more about their way of reaching the top.

Emir Zecovic

Emir is the Head of Marketing at 12min. In his spare time, he loves to meditate and play soccer.