The Forgotten Man

A New History of the Great Depression

Amity Shales

Book Synopsis

"The Forgotten Man" by Amity Shlaes is a thought-provoking exploration of the Great Depression in America. Shlaes presents a fresh perspective on this historic era, focusing on the forgotten individuals who endured immense hardships and played key roles in shaping the nation's recovery.

Through meticulous research, Shlaes introduces us to forgotten figures such as Wendell Willkie, a businessman turned presidential candidate, and Andrew Mellon, a Treasury Secretary who led crucial economic reforms. These individuals, often overshadowed by Franklin D. Roosevelt and his New Deal policies, demonstrate the resilience and resourcefulness that defined the American spirit during this trying time.

Shlaes delves into the unintended consequences of Roosevelt's extensive government intervention and argues that it complicated the recovery process, hindering economic growth and job creation. By shining a spotlight on the struggles faced by everyday Americans and dissecting the impact of policies, Shlaes challenges prevailing assumptions about the Great Depression and its aftermath.

"The Forgotten Man" offers valuable insights into the consequences of government intervention in times of crisis and the importance of recognizing and supporting the forgotten individuals who power society forward. In a concise and well-researched manner, Shlaes raises thought-provoking questions about the balance between individual liberty and collective responsibility, urging readers to reexamine historical narratives and endeavor to learn from the past.

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