"The kind and quality of methods and successful ruling men . . . are set forth in this exposition. Still more important is the ascertainment of where these stupendous fortunes came from, their particular origin and growth, and what significance the concomitant methods and institutions have to the great body of the people."
-Gustavus Myers, ""Preface," The History of the Great American Fortunes, Vol. I
The History of the Great American Fortunes, Vol. I (1910), by Gustavus Myers, is the first of three volumes in the original edition of a trilogy that attempts to document the corruption and wrongdoing that enabled the creation of great fortunes in 19th century America. Volume I describes the colonization of America and details of the large land grants and the great land fortunes.