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A Quick History of Money: From Cash Cows to Crypto-Currencies (Quick Histories)

A Quick History of Money: From Cash Cows to Crypto-Currencies (Quick Histories)

Published in
2021
3.72
on Goodreads (29)

Description

Why is a £5 note worth £5? Where do coins come from? What do banks actually do? All this and so much more is answered in A Quick History of Money, a crash course from cash cows to cryptocurrency.   Money might sound all grown-up and serious, but the history of buying, selling, saving and stealing is full of crazy stories and unbelievable facts. A Quick History of Money is here to show you the silly side, as well as give you the lowdown on the important stuff like interest, stocks and shares and wealth inequality.  You will discover: How the earliest societies got by without a penny in their pockets.Why gold gets all the glory.How the first banks started making money from money.Who invented the first banknotes and the concept of 'fiat' money.The craziest money-making cons of all time, from shaving coins to selling the Eiffel Tower… twice.How wealth is measured in the modern-day.History's most expensive money mistakes.What money might look like in the future.Great tips for slick saving and smart spending.   Plus, read about the world's weirdest wonga, from the four-tonne stones used as currency on the island of Yap, to teacups and sea shells in ancient Asia, to beaver pelts in colonial Canada. Learn how hyperinflation leads to some mind-blowing money maths, like the Bitcoins used to buy two pizzas in 2010 that would be worth £75 million today. Test your knowhow with a quiz at the back of the book.   Packed with facts and jokes, the latest in the Quick Histories series takes us on a chronological tour from cashless societies to… cashless societies, proving that while it might make the world go round, money sure is funny.  
Age
7-11
Text complexity
beginner

Why to read

  • Educational Insight: Reading 'A Quick History of Money: From Cash Cows to Crypto-Currencies' provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of money, offering readers a chance to understand the historical context and development of financial systems that shape our current economy.
  • Relevance to Modern Times: As the world increasingly moves towards digital currencies and transactions, understanding the origins and transformations of money becomes crucial. This book offers insights into how past financial innovations have led to the rise of cryptocurrencies, making it highly relevant for anyone interested in the future of money.
  • Engaging Writing Style: Clive Gifford is known for his ability to make complex subjects accessible and engaging. Readers will find the book's content not only informative but also enjoyable to read, making the learning process about monetary history both entertaining and enlightening.
  • Critical Thinking: The book encourages readers to think critically about the concept of money, its value, and its role in society. By exploring the various forms money has taken over time, readers can better understand the implications of current financial trends and make more informed decisions about their personal finances and investments.