Edited by Cassis and Cottrell (economic and social history at the U. of Geneva and Leicester U. respectively), the 15 articles in this volume offer a history and analysis of private banking in
Europe over the last 250 years and its impact on various aspects of society, including industry and philanthropy. Often built on family networks, the histories of the banks owned by well-known
names such as the Rothschilds and Baring Brothers are explored, as well as the history of private banking in London, Germany, France and Italy. Social and cultural networks, often created
through a shared religion, played a role as well, as can be seen with two chapters devoted to Protestant and Jewish banking. Written by senior scholars in the field and rich with material from
primary sources, this volume is a notable addition to the field. Annotation 穢2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
