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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A fascinating history of the founders of modern banking,
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This review is from: Medici Money (Paperback)
How did we get to today's banking crisis? Modern banking began with the Medici bank. Started in 1397 it established stand-alone branches in key European cities. The book will give you the details and explain how money was exchanged (today's checking and debit accounts). Like today's banks, the Medici got into politics. This is not a boring financial book. Its a soap opera over 5 generations. Lots of personal stories of intrigue.By the time the bank went out of business in 1494, the family had managed to get 2 of their own elected as Pope and several daughters became wives of Europe's rulers, including the king of France (Catherine). And they had begun collecting artifacts and paintings for which they built display rooms to show off (today's museums). Pope Leo X tried to carry on the family tradition at the Vatican and caused a deficit so bad that the Church began selling Indulgences. And here comes Luther and the Reformation. To read the details of that part of the story you need to read "White Robe, Black Robe" by Charles Mee. If you want to see photos of some of the decorative art collection of the family, look at "Treasures of the Medici" by Anna Massinelli. I have reviewed both of these books. |
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Medici Money by Tim Parks (Hardcover - May 26, 2005)
Used & New from: $16.08
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