A light-hearted look at some of the more entertaining episodes of economic history. Bryan Taylor uses his knowledge of the past to illustrate how corporations and governments have helped and harmed the economy and financial markets. Readers will learn about the greatest counterfeiter of all time, the first publicly traded bonds, the worst inflation in history, the currency that created two countries, zombie bonds, and the New Jersey tailor who went to jail for undercutting other tailors by 5 cents. Taylor provides his insights on the gold standard, government debt, the stock market and why the Fed will keep interest rates low for years to come. Whether looking for an amusing glimpse into the past or to learn how the economy can affect the stock market, Debt, Defaults, and Depression provides both. Even people who think calling economics the "dismal science" is being too kind enjoy this book.