
Money truly does make the world go ‘round. And yet, we often overlook the vital importance of economics when it comes to studying history. Most of us, even those savvy at fol-lowing today’s market fluctuations, have a limited understanding of the powerful role economics has played in shaping human civilization. This makes economic history – the study of how civilizations have structured their environments in order to provide food, shelter, and material goods—a vital lens through which to think about how we arrived at our present, globalized moment. It’s also a way to educate yourself about the history behind today’s (and tomorrow’s) economic headlines, from trade negotiations to job outsourcing to financial miracles.

























