A History of Interest Rates: 2000 B.C. to the Present by Sidney Homer (First Edition) (1963)

A History of Interest Rates: 2000 B.C. to the Present by Sidney Homer is a landmark work of financial and economic history that traces the development of interest rates across more than four thousand years of civilization. The book examines how societies have borrowed and lent money from ancient times through the modern era, showing how interest rates reflected broader economic, political, and social conditions. Beginning with early civilizations in Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome, Homer explores the origins of credit, lending practices, and legal regulations governing debt. The narrative follows the evolution of financial systems through the medieval period, when religious attitudes and commercial expansion shaped the availability and cost of credit. The book analyzes the rise of banking institutions, the growth of trade finance, and the increasing sophistication of capital markets in Europe. A major focus is the relationship between interest rates and historical events. Wars, government borrowing, monetary reforms, inflation, depressions, and periods of economic growth are examined for their influence on the cost of money. Homer presents extensive statistical evidence and historical records to show long-term trends in lending rates, government securities, and commercial finance. The study also investigates the emergence of modern financial markets in Britain, continental Europe, and the United States. By comparing centuries of data, the author identifies recurring patterns and significant shifts in credit conditions. The result is both a financial reference and a broad historical survey that connects economic development with changing attitudes toward risk, capital, investment, and public finance. The book provides valuable insight into the historical foundations of banking, debt markets, and monetary systems throughout world history. This book has some condition issues, part of the damaged jacket is stuck to the lower portion of the back cover. Other copies in near fine condition are selling for up to $4,000! Yes, really, $4k. Hard cover edition with unclipped dustjacket. 617 pages. Dimensions: 6.25" by 9.5". Published by Rutgers University Press, NJ. 1st printing, 1963. B&W illustrations. Red binding. Cover defect(s): Slight corner/edge damage. Dustjacket defect(s): Some scratches/scuffing. Some tears. Missing pieces. 3 Pound Media Mail Rate. Combine items and SAVE! Genre(s): Economics / History / Capitalism. (B072). …