Allen F.L. The Lords of creation (1935)

"The Lords of Creation" is a book written by Frederick Lewis Allen and first published in 1935. It provides an in-depth examination of the rise and consolidation of corporate power in the United States during the early 20th century, specifically focusing on the era of the Roaring Twenties. The book delves into the lives and actions of influential figures such as J.P. Morgan, John D. Rockefeller, and Andrew Mellon, who played pivotal roles in shaping the American economy and society. Allen analyzes the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few powerful individuals and the extensive control they exerted over industries such as banking, oil, and steel. He explores the methods these business magnates employed to maximize their financial gains, from monopolistic practices to political maneuvering. Allen also examines the repercussions of corporate dominance, particularly the impact on the working class and the growing income inequality during this period. The book presents a critical view of the pursuit of profit above all else, pointing out the negative consequences it had on ordinary Americans, such as the stock market crash of 1929 and the subsequent Great Depression. "The Lords of Creation" provides a comprehensive and well-researched account of the rise of corporate power in America, shedding light on the inner workings of the country's economic and political landscape during this critical period. It remains a significant historical work that offers insights into the development of capitalism, the challenges of democracy, and the consequences of unregulated business practices.