Crime, Cash, Credit and Chaos: A Brief History of the Life and Work of John Law (1671-1729) the Fath

by Colin McCall

Earnest, mathematically gifted, diligent and with noticeable appearance, John Law continues to hold fascination for biographers, economists, historians and those generally interested in tracing lives filled with incident and intrigue. Born in Scotland, his deeds principally unfold across Edinburgh, London, Paris and Venice. In his lifetime and subsequently, he has been described as a complex character of varied reputation. He has been assigned the descriptions of beau, gambler, murderer, flouter of convention and economic genius. Though at one time holding a position in France of near equal status to that of Robert Walpole in England, John Law was to die impoverished and bereft of power. "Crime, Cash, Credit and Chaos" is a contribution to tracing Law's fascinating influence. It examines the events and circumstances that became his dramatic and tragic life and it provides insights into his pioneering role in the development of credit systems and capitalism. It explains his link with the word 'millionaire' and his influence on Louisiana in the USA. It seeks to unravel Law's complex character and to explain his controversial reputation. The interesting details are supplemented by an attractive set of sketches. The text and the illustrations provide a lively interpretation of this Edinburgh Scot whose life continues to have significant influence on both sides of the Atlantic. The biography traces connections between Law's life and that of other famous contemporaries.

208 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2007