The Modern Scholar

Masters of Enterprise: American Business History and the People Who Made it

By: Professor H. W. Brands

Narrated by: Professor H. W. Brands

Since the formation of the American Republic the principles of free enterprise and equal opportunity have been at the very core of economic philosophy. During the revolution, colonists fought not only for intangibles like "liberty" and "justice," but also for the promises of a free market that provided everyone with the opportunity to pursue economic advancement regardless of social position and unsubjugated to a crown. America quickly became a society in which an individual's success would be measured not by birthright, but rather by determination. In this atmosphere, men and women have sought fortune limited only by their own abilities, their willingness to work hard, and their courage in the face of unknown dangers.

In this course, we'll examine the lives and careers of successful men and women who seized the opportunities offered by the vibrant and open economy that has ensued. We'll examine how each of these individuals found the necessary resources - both economic and personal - to achieve greatness in the business arena. In doing so, we hope not only to arrive at a better understanding of American business history in general, but also to commune with its greatest visionaries - its Masters of Enterprise.

Download the accompanying reference guide.©2003 H.W. Brands (P)2003 Recorded Books

Excellent!

H.W. Brands' narrative style and enthusiasm for American business history makes this a very fascinating volume.

Great Narrator!

Professor Brands does a great job narrating these lectures which cover the lives of many influential business people throughout America's history. Each lecture is another insightful biography.

Professor Brands books, impossible to put down!

This book is one I've listened to many times and had to buy several times because I've passed it around to friends and family and they keep it! If you enjoy history even the slightest, Professor Brands will keep you engaged 100% through whatever of his you are listening to or reading!

Fascinating example of some Masters of Enterprise

What did you like best about this story?

Each chapter focuses on one of the greats of enterprise (from John Jacob Aster, Cornellius Vanderbilt, Ray Crock, Mary Kay, Bill Gates and others). It was fascinating to listen to their stories.

Which character – as performed by the narrator – was your favorite?

That's tough... a lot of them were very interesting

Any additional comments?

The only area of improvement would be to weave the stories together a bit more so that we can see how they relate to one another. For example, Vanderbilt, Rockefeller and Carnegie have a story that can weave together nicely... and Morgan at a time.