The History of the Standard Oil Company: Briefer Version

Classic book. Fast delivery.

This is a very nice book for anyone who would like to know a little bit of history of oil and its production and also how Standard Oil was founded and gradually became leader and monopoly of the industry. The book is written by a journalist of early 1900s and is based on a series of articles that appeared in a magazine. Of course since initially this was a journalist investigation we have to understand that at some points the story might be biased, but anyway the material of the book is very good and well-thought. What I liked about the book: 1) provides a history how entire industry was created, 2) provides detailed overview how Standard Oil, first major industrial monopoly in US, appeared, 3) gives details on all fair and unfair ways of Mr Rockfeller running the company in a comprehensive manner. Could recommend to read both to specialists in oil & gas industry and people who are interested in the field.

A bit sluggish to read, like a first year college term paper. However, the history lesson with facts to back it up are worth every penny. You'll never want to own a fuel driven car again after you read this.

It's a great story, but very detailed. I got halfway through it, and had to give up. Hopefully you will have more patience than me.

It's interesting to read through this book, adapted from the famous series of articles for McClure's magazine. It provides a very detailed history of the Standard Oil company's history from inception to the late 1890s. The author provides a strongly critical perspective, while mostly distinguishing opinion from fact.The weakest parts of the book, for me, were the author's criticism of some of the company's practices, often stating or implying that these practices were illegal, yet also suggesting that laws should be enacted to prohibit the practices.I was somewhat disappointed that the editor apparently focused only on "abridging" this into the "briefer version," without providing any update information about the impact this book had on the Standard Oil company and other trusts.

An interesting story of the growth of the industrial revolution in the United States.

USA has her less proud moment. Those who remember those days would be more forgiving to others. Those who unfortunately unable to remember or are ignorant about those days would believe they have occupied the highest moral high ground. For the latter, this book is valuable.

This was a gift to my history buff brother. He wrote and said he loved it. Especially the way business was conducted by John Rockefeller. The lives and relationships of wealthy business barons.

I picked up the book as my 1st read into the oil and gas industry. It not only helped me get a feel about the company but also felt like the right place to start, in hindsight, as thr book takes it’s course right from the first oil drilling plant. The book takes you through an adventure ride of ups and downs of oil prices, competition, and obstacles and tactful strategies to overcome. The impotant question of ethical business practice is raised in the most straight forward manner. A well chained flow is maintained and I enjoyed reading the book.

Great book. Lots of solid information about history and how our world evolved into a money ruling frenzy. Well written and very informative.