“How to Get Rich in American History: 300 Years of Financial Advice That Worked (& Didn’t)”
Joseph S. Moore, PhD
2026/Harper Business
$32/344 pages
It’s a conundrum: invest in stocks or real estate or Crypto? It depends, says Joseph S. Moore, author of “How to Get Rich in American History,” who knows a thing or three about finances.
To gain wealth, pay attention to myths and truths from the past. Keep in mind that assets and money are different things. Avoid cryptocurrency and be careful about the money “gurus” you listen to. Remember that the government will always be involved. Don’t get distracted when investing. Use your money to “solve someone else’s problem.” Get a side hustle when you need one and leverage the things you already own. Know how money fits in with retirement. Invest in your children, but never, ever co-sign a loan.
Imagine what it’d be like if your accountant or your numbers-person suddenly gained a history degree and a wicked-smart sense of humor. That’s what you get when you read this book.
Moore says the information gleaned from old books about finance helps him explain American financial history and why everything old is new again when it comes to your money. Moore also uses his own story of near-ruin to explain some of the not-so-unusual advice he offers, then he backs it up with more history, in a way that’s both eye-opening and wryly hilarious. This is information that’ll make you feel smarter. It also proves that, despite what’s going on in the world, you’re probably better off than any of your ancestors were.
