A History of Business: from Babylon to the Monopolists by Miriam Beard traces the evolution of business from antiquity to the rise of monopolists. This first edition as an Ann Arbor Paperback in 1962 offers a comprehensive account of business practices over millennia. Beard explores the role of businesspeople through various historical periods, examining their influence on society, culture, and the economy. The book is divided into three parts: The Heritage of Antiquity, The Patrician City-Ruler, and The Monopolist. Each section delves into different eras, including the Homeric Age, Medieval cities, Renaissance Italy, and the rise of capitalists during the Industrial Revolution. The introduction highlights the businessperson's historical context and the lack of historical recognition compared to other societal figures. Through detailed analysis, Beard sheds light on the contributions of merchants, financiers, and industrialists, asserting their importance in shaping civilizations, despite their often overlooked status in traditional historical narratives.