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This book offers a unique perspective on fascinating historical topic. It presents a comprehensive selection of texts drawn from the archives of corporations in England and America. The book fits into the library collection of any institution concerned with history or finance.

This volume deals with issues of widespread interest including, the origins of investor rights in different markets, the political, legal and economic conditions that determine levels of shareholder participation, and the implications of variation in investor rights.

Drawing on legal and economic history, Robert E. Wright traces the development of corporate institutions in America, connecting today's financial failures to weakened internal corporate regulation.