How can this field develop in an age of global markets, growing information technology, and diminishing resources? A transnational collaboration between two senior scholars, Reimagining Business History offers direction in forty- four short, pithy essays.
The Textile Manufacture at Philadelphia, 1800 1885
Focusing on Philadelphia as the heart of American textile manufacturing in the late 19th century, this book explores the rise of proprietary capitalism characterized by immigrant family firms and adaptable production strategies. It highlights the resilience of small and mid-sized businesses, which thrived through specialized networks rather than succumbing to corporate giants. By documenting this unique model, the book challenges conventional narratives about industrial development in America and re-evaluates the significance of small businesses in shaping the economy.
Production, Markets and Power in Philadelphia Textiles, 1855 1941
Exploring the themes of industrial maturity and decline, this book delves into the history and evolution of the textile trades in Philadelphia. It examines the factors that contributed to the rise and fall of this once-thriving industry, offering insights into economic, social, and technological changes that shaped the landscape of textile manufacturing. Through detailed analysis, it highlights the challenges faced by workers and businesses alike during pivotal transitions in the industry.
From Chaos to Contradiction, 19571972
Focusing on the socio-economic landscape of Hungary over two decades, the book delves into the evolution of enterprises and individual experiences across agriculture, infrastructure, commerce, and manufacturing. It chronicles the shift from Stalinist heavy industry to reforms emphasizing profitable farming and consumer goods. Through numerous firsthand accounts, it reveals the complexities of life under socialism, exploring themes of innovation, failure, and resilience. This work enriches the understanding of postwar Central European socialism, offering a nuanced perspective on its impact on ordinary lives.
A Socialist Experiment, 19501971
The book explores the experiences of managers, entrepreneurs, and workers in Communist China from Liberation to the early 1970s, highlighting their roles in state-owned, cooperative, and private enterprises. It utilizes newly available archival resources to analyze how these entities operated and adapted amid limited expertise and resources. Key themes include the evolution of Chinese enterprises, the significance of technological initiatives, and the impact of early socialist practices on the later economic transformation known as the "Chinese miracle."
Creating the Theft Economy, 19451957
Focusing on Hungary's evolving economic landscape from 1945 to 1972, this study delves into the activities of enterprises and individuals across agriculture, infrastructure, commerce, and manufacturing. It begins with the Stalinist emphasis on heavy industry and transitions to later reforms that prioritize profitable farming and consumer goods. By presenting numerous firsthand accounts, the work captures a range of experiences from innovation to failure, offering readers an intimate glimpse into a complex and unique socio-economic environment.
Specialty Production and American Industrialization, 1865-1925
Focusing on the period between the Civil War and World War I, this book highlights the significance of flexibility, specialization, and niche marketing in establishing the U.S. as a global manufacturing power. While mass production industries are often credited, the author emphasizes the role of specialty firms across various sectors, including printing, jewelry, furniture, and tools. The narrative explores the dynamics between workers and owners, the collaboration among entrepreneurs and city officials, and the contributions of industrial engineers like Frederic W. Taylor.