Age of Betrayal: The Triumph of Money in America, 1865-1900

I found this a great source book for the Gilded Age of America, and how and when the decisions were made to allow Big Business such a great impact on the course of our country

I was very intrigued by the premise of this book and looked forward to reading it. But I was quickly put off by the fact that the author spends a great deal of time quoting sources of the day and not writing the story himself. I understand the desire for trying to relate the mood of the time, but trying to join the words of others together is a tough read and suited more for academia than popular history. I was giving this book my best and read the NY Times review which I think nailed it - you get the feeling that the author is very knowledgeable and has a great story to tell but needs to tell it in his voice.

outstanding. really interesting detailed discussion of Santa Clara decision.

"An engaging responsible and compelling book. It offers an excellent introduction to the epic sags of late 19th century America and an important for our time." The San Diego Union-Tribune