The Rothschilds

Product description Perhaps no other name in history can so truly encapsulate the phrase “rags to riches” as Rothschild does. In the late eighteenth century, it was a gentle, astute Jew born in a Frankfurt ghetto, Mayer Amschel Rothschild, whose interest in old coins and canny investments would set the family on the path to becoming one of the most powerful dynasties of Europe. Ennobled by the Austrian Emperor, soon the Rothschild name would become a household name. Kings and princes, generals and businessmen, whether their move was political or economic, in a time of war or a time of peace, the controlling force behind them would be the Rothschild family. Dazzlingly rich, the energetic, brilliant and downright extraordinary members of the Rothschild family were the force responsible for innovations in banking throughout the nineteenth century. Times have changed and dynasties crumbled, but this marvellously rich history tells how the Rothschilds always endure. Praise for Virgina Cowles ‘The history of the Rothschilds is every bit as rich and remarkable as their wealth.’ – The Times ‘Splendidly readable.’ - The Sunday Times ’One of the most delightful books I have read. Miss Cowles has given us a tour-de-force, well researched, comprehensive, frank … [it] abounds in amazing stories of extraordinary personalities.’ – Books and Bookmen Virginia Cowles (1912-83) was a renowned American journalist and biographer of historical figures, including Winston Churchill and David Stirling, a founding member of the SAS. Initially covering fashion and society, Cowles made the transition to war correspondent, covering first the Spanish Civil War and then the Second World War, reporting from all over Europe: her service in this was recognised by the British with an OBE in 1947.