""History of the Great American Fortunes"" is a two-volume book written by Gustavus Myers that provides a detailed account of the rise and consolidation of wealth in America during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The second volume specifically covers the period from 1865 to 1900, a time of significant economic growth and industrialization in the United States.Myers examines the lives and business practices of some of the most prominent American capitalists of the time, including John D. Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, Cornelius Vanderbilt, and J.P. Morgan. He delves into their early beginnings, their rise to power, and the methods they used to accumulate vast fortunes.The book also explores the political and social implications of these massive accumulations of wealth, including the rise of monopolies, the exploitation of workers, and the corruption of the political system. Myers argues that the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few individuals had a negative impact on democracy and the overall well-being of society.Overall, ""History of the Great American Fortunes"" offers a comprehensive and critical analysis of the capitalist system in America during a pivotal period in its history.In Three Volumes. Vol. II. Great Fortunes From Railroads.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.