A very English deceit: the secret history of the South Sea Bubble and the first great financial scandal

Uncover the captivating and cautionary tale of the South Sea Bubble, history's most audacious financial swindle, in Malcolm Balen's meticulously researched and enthralling book, *A Very English Deceit: The Secret History of the South Sea Bubble and the First Great Financial Scandal*. This isn't just another dry historical account; Balen breathes life into the characters and circumstances that led to the catastrophic collapse of 1720, revealing a scandal that dwarfed Enron and WorldCom in its scope and impact. Balen, a skilled storyteller with a keen eye for detail, exposes the intricate web of deceit spun by the South Sea Company. This ambitious venture, promising untold riches from trade with the Americas, seduced investors from every corner of British society from royalty and politicians to merchants and common gamblers. What they didn't know was that the company was built on smoke and mirrors, lacking the very ships needed to fulfill its grand ambitions. *A Very English Deceit* delves into the motivations of the key players: the unscrupulous masterminds who engineered the scheme, the naive investors blinded by greed, and the powerful figures who turned a blind eye to the unfolding crisis. Balen meticulously reconstructs the events leading up to the bubble's spectacular burst, painting a vivid picture of a society gripped by speculative mania. Beyond the drama of the scandal itself, Balen explores the lasting consequences of the South Sea Bubble. He demonstrates how it shook the foundations of British society, leaving a legacy of distrust and financial instability. The book also highlights the crucial lessons that can be learned from this historical episode, lessons that remain remarkably relevant in today's volatile financial landscape. Indeed, the very term "bubble" to describe unsustainable financial speculation is a direct legacy of this pivotal moment in economic history. Published by Fourth Estate, this First Edition Hardcover is more than just a historical account; it's a gripping narrative that reads like a thriller. Balen's accessible writing style makes complex financial concepts understandable to a broad audience, while his rigorous research ensures the book's credibility. Whether you're a history buff, a finance professional, or simply someone interested in a good story, *A Very English Deceit* is sure to captivate and inform. Discover how the South Sea Bubble became the blueprint for financial scandals to come, and understand why its lessons are more vital than ever in the 21st century. Don't miss this opportunity to own a piece of financial history order your copy today!