When Money Dies: The Nightmare of Deficit Spending, Devaluation, and Hyperinflation in Weimar Germany by Adam Fergusson

When Money Dies: The Nightmare of Deficit Spending, Devaluation, and Hyperinflation in Weimar Germany by Adam Fergusson is a gripping historical account of one of the most catastrophic economic collapses in modern history—the hyperinflation that devastated Germany after World War I. This book serves as both a warning and a lesson about the consequences of reckless monetary and fiscal policies. Synopsis Fergusson vividly narrates how post-war reparations, uncontrolled deficit spending, and the overprinting of money led to the collapse of the German mark and the destruction of the middle class. Through personal stories, government records, and economic analysis, the book illustrates the social and political chaos that resulted—from food shortages and riots to the rise of extremist movements. The story of Weimar Germany becomes a cautionary tale about the dangers of currency debasement and the fragile nature of economic stability. Key Features & Themes

• Historical Case Study: Detailed chronicle of Weimar Germany’s economic collapse.
• Causes of Hyperinflation: Reparations, debt, and unchecked money supply.
• Human Impact: How ordinary people suffered under economic chaos.
• Political Consequences: The rise of extremism and erosion of democracy.
• Economic Lessons: Warnings about inflation, monetary policy, and fiscal irresponsibility.

Why Read It?

• Provides a compelling historical perspective on monetary failure.
• Offers insights relevant to modern debates on inflation and government spending.
• Blends economic analysis with powerful human stories for deeper impact.
• Essential for economists, policymakers, and anyone concerned about financial stability.

When Money Dies is a powerful and sobering reminder that economic mismanagement can lead to societal collapse, making it a must-read for understanding the perils of inflation and fiscal excess.