1929 Inside the Greatest Crash in Wall Street History--and How It Shattered a Nation

Sorkin's thoroughly researched depictions of the personalities and market gyrations that led up to the stock market crash of 1929 give the listener insights into the economic greed and foolishness of the 1920s. A NEW YORK TIMES writer and television personality, Sorkin narrates as a practiced professional. While the audiobook may be considered a parable for today's "market manias," its power derives from its cast of characters: Banker Charles McGrath, tried but acquitted of fiscal misdealing; Jack Morgan, secretive son of JP; Herbert Hoover, well equipped to be president but averse to reform. Taking the story four years beyond the crash is helpful. Sorkin details reforms like the Glass-Steagall Act (1933), which separated commercial and investment banking, and the FDIC, which insures bank deposits. A.D.M. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2025]