14 Documentaries About the Fascinating History of Money
Exploring Economic Evolution
The history of money is a compelling and multifaceted topic that has shaped societies and economies worldwide. Documentaries on this subject offer invaluable insights into the evolution of financial systems, revealing the complex interplay between economic theories, historical events, and individual experiences.
These films serve as a rich resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the economic forces that influence our daily lives. By exploring various aspects of finance, from personal savings to global economic policies, these documentaries provide a nuanced view of how money impacts both individuals and societies.
1) The Ascent of Money (2008)
"The Ascent of Money," produced by PBS and Channel 4, offers a comprehensive historical journey through the evolution of financial systems. Based on the book by Harvard professor Niall Ferguson, this documentary explores the roots and development of money, credit, and banking.
Niall Ferguson delves into the financial implications of events like the conquest of the Americas. He provides insights into how ancient societies used money and how financial practices have transformed over centuries.
The series doesn't shy away from modern financial issues. It covers the 2008 financial crisis and examines topics like the rise of populism, trade wars, and the advent of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.
Viewers are taken on an engaging journey of financial history, blending facts and expert opinions. Niall Ferguson's clear explanations make complex topics accessible, enriching the viewer's understanding of the interconnectedness of global finance.
More information about "The Ascent of Money" can be found here.
2) The Money Masters (1996)
"The Money Masters" is a documentary film directed and narrated by William T. Still and produced by Patrick S. J. Carmack.
This 3 1/2 hour historical documentary traces the origins and evolution of the political power structure.
It discusses concepts such as money, debt, and taxes, detailing their development from biblical times onward.
A significant portion focuses on the hidden manipulation and accumulation of gold and other forms of money.
It explains the development of fractional reserve banking practices in the 17th century and their impact on modern finance.
The film is widely regarded for its thorough exploration of how money and economic power have shaped history.
For more information, visit IMDb.
3) Inside Job (2010)
"Inside Job" is a documentary directed by Charles Ferguson that investigates the 2008 financial crisis.
The film outlines the series of decisions, deregulation, and economic policies that contributed to the crisis.
It provides a detailed look at the origins and evolution of financial practices, including the rise of derivatives and moral hazards.
The documentary also explores the "revolving door" between financial institutions and government agencies. This concept highlights the conflicts of interest that can arise when individuals move between sectors.
The film includes interviews with financial insiders, politicians, journalists, and academics. These insights offer a comprehensive perspective on the financial industry.
"Inside Job" received critical acclaim and won the 2010 Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
For more information, visit the IMDb page: Inside Job.
4) The Roosevelts: An Intimate History (2014)
This seven-part, 14-hour film, directed and produced by Ken Burns, tells the intertwined stories of Theodore, Franklin, and Eleanor Roosevelt. These three Roosevelts had a significant impact on American politics and society.
Theodore Roosevelt served as the 26th President of the United States, known for his progressive policies and strong leadership. Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President, is remembered for his New Deal programs and leadership during World War II.
Eleanor Roosevelt gained fame as a First Lady and a powerful advocate for social justice. Her contributions to human rights continue to influence the world today.
Ken Burns' approach weaves together their personal stories, political careers, and the major events of their time. This documentary provides an intimate look into their lives and the lasting legacy of their family.
For more information, visit IMDb.
5) The End of Poverty? (2008)
"The End of Poverty?" is a documentary directed by Philippe Diaz, examining the global issue of poverty. This film delves into the historical roots of poverty, tracing it back 500 years to the era of explorers and conquistadors.
The documentary is narrated by Martin Sheen, adding a familiar voice to its critical exploration.
It features interviews with economists, politicians, writers, and professors, presenting both expert opinions and the experiences of impoverished people from around the world.
A distinct angle of the film is its focus on the disproportionate consumption of resources, noting that 20% of the population uses 80% of the planet's resources.
"The End of Poverty?" was recognized at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival and earned critical acclaim for its bold narrative and insightful arguments.
Read more about "The End of Poverty?"
6) American Experience: The Crash of 1929 (1990)
This documentary explores the infamous stock market crash of 1929, a pivotal event in financial history that precipitated the Great Depression.
It features interviews with descendants of Wall Street insiders. Their perspectives provide unique insights into the causes and consequences of the crash.
Released as part of the PBS "American Experience" series, the film paints a vivid picture of the era's unbounded optimism. This sentiment starkly contrasts with the devastating financial collapse that occurred on October 29, 1929, known as Black Tuesday.
Through historical footage and expert commentary, it offers a detailed look at the financial landscape of the 1920s. It illustrates how speculative investments and unchecked financial practices led to widespread economic disaster.
The documentary goes beyond the numbers, delving into personal stories and the broader societal impact. By capturing the human side of this economic catastrophe, it highlights the profound effects on individuals and families.
For further information, visit the IMDb page.
7) The True Cost (2015)
"The True Cost," directed by Andrew Morgan, examines the impact of fast fashion on both people and the planet. It sheds light on the harsh realities faced by low-wage garment workers in developing countries, highlighting issues like poor working conditions and meager wages.
The film dives into the environmental toll of fashion, covering topics such as river and soil pollution caused by the industry. It also addresses pesticide contamination and its severe consequences on communities near production sites.
Viewers gain insight into the complex links between consumer behavior, corporate practices, and global economic inequalities. The documentary calls for more ethical and sustainable practices in the fashion industry, urging consumers to rethink their shopping habits.
For more information, visit Wikipedia or IMDB.
8) Broke: The New American Dream (2009)
"Broke: The New American Dream" is a documentary directed by Michael W. Covel.
The film offers an insightful look into the challenges associated with investments and retirement. Covel traveled 75,000 miles across multiple continents to gather perspectives from various individuals, including single moms and Nobel Prize winners.
The documentary aims to find viable financial solutions and features interviews with notable figures such as David Harding, Larry Hite, Jim Rogers, and Salem Abraham.
Covering the economic collapse of 2007-2009, the film delves into its causes and potential remedies. It provides a comprehensive overview of the financial crisis and its impact on everyday life.
For more information on this documentary, visit IMDb.
9) Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005)
Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room is a documentary that explores the rise and catastrophic fall of Enron Corporation. The film, directed by Alex Gibney, is based on the book by Fortune Magazine reporters Bethany McLean and Peter Elkind.
The documentary delves into the world of corporate corruption and fraud committed by Enron executives. These unethical practices led to the company's collapse and caused significant financial harm to employees and investors.
Through interviews and detailed storytelling, the film showcases how corporate greed and deception can devastate lives and the economy. It remains a critical case study on corporate ethics and governance.
For more information, visit the Wikipedia page.
10) The Secret History of the Federal Reserve (2024)
This documentary delves into the origins of the Federal Reserve, America's central bank.
The film explores a secretive meeting that took place on Jekyll Island in 1910, where influential bankers and economists laid the groundwork for the institution.
It provides detailed accounts of how these behind-closed-doors discussions led to the establishment of the Federal Reserve in 1913.
By examining original documents and testimonies, the documentary sheds light on the motivations and aspirations of the individuals involved.
It also focuses on how the Federal Reserve's actions have shaped the U.S. economy over the decades.
For more information, visit IMDb.
11) The China Hustle (2017)
This documentary, directed by Jed Rothstein, delves into the massive securities fraud by Chinese companies listed on the US stock market.
The film exposes the deceptive practices employed to inflate the value of these companies, affecting millions of investors. Activist shareholders and due diligence professionals, such as Dan David and Jon Carnes, play critical roles in uncovering these frauds.
Produced by Magnolia Pictures, "The China Hustle" delivers an eye-opening look into a still-unfolding financial scandal. It highlights the risks and realities of international investments in the global market.
More information can be found here.
12) Capitalism: A Love Story (2009)
Michael Moore's documentary, "Capitalism: A Love Story," tackles the late-2000s financial crisis. It examines how prioritizing corporate profits impacted society.
The film critiques Wall Street's practices and the influence bankers had on Washington, D.C.
Moore explores the social consequences of corporate greed, portraying them as detrimental to the public good.
The documentary also discusses the recovery stimulus and the broader economic system in the United States.
For more information, visit IMDB or Wikipedia.
13) The Corporation (2003)
The 2003 Canadian documentary film "The Corporation" delves into the concept of the modern corporation and its evolving role in society. Directed by Mark Achbar and Jennifer Abbott, and based on the book by Joel Bakan, the documentary scrutinizes the rise and dominance of corporate power.
It investigates how corporations have grown to become pervasive institutions that affect nearly every aspect of modern life. The filmmakers interview a range of individuals, including CEOs, whistle-blowers, and activists, to provide multiple perspectives on the issue.
The documentary critically examines the inner workings, history, and societal impacts of corporations. It questions the ethical and social responsibilities of these entities and explores the potential for reform or resistance by concerned citizens.
For more details, visit Wikipedia - The Corporation.
14) The Four Horsemen (2012)
"The Four Horsemen" is a British documentary directed by Ross Ashcroft.
This film explores critical issues such as fractional reserve banking, debt-based economies, and political lobbying by financial institutions.
The documentary highlights the flaws in these systems and their impact on Western civilization.
Prominent thinkers like Noam Chomsky and Joseph Stiglitz discuss the importance of addressing these economic issues to avoid societal collapse.
By examining historical patterns and current challenges, "The Four Horsemen" provides a comprehensive view of modern economic struggles.
For more information, visit the Wikipedia page.
The Early Beginnings of Money
Money, as we know it today, has evolved greatly from its early forms. The origins of money can be traced back to the barter system and the development of commodity money, both of which played crucial roles in shaping modern economies.
Barter System and Its Limitations
The barter system is one of the earliest forms of trade. People exchanged goods and services directly, such as trading grain for livestock. This system relied on a mutual coincidence of wants, meaning both parties had to desire what the other offered.
However, the barter system had notable limitations. Without a common measure of value, it was difficult to determine fair trades. Perishability of goods and the impracticality of transporting large quantities further complicated barter. For instance, how would one trade large amounts of wheat for smaller yet valuable items like jewelry?
Given these issues, the barter system became inefficient for growing societies. It was the quest for more efficient trading methods that led to the development of money in various forms.
The Emergence of Commodity Money
Commodity money represented the next step in the evolution of economic systems. Early civilizations began using objects with intrinsic value as money. Items like gold, silver, salt, and even livestock served this purpose. These commodities were chosen because of their durability, divisibility, and intrinsic value.
Gold and silver coins became particularly prominent due to their portability and ability to be divided into smaller units. This advancement eased trade significantly, as people could carry and exchange these valuable items more easily than bulky goods. The use of commodity money created a standardized measure of value, simplifying transactions and laying the groundwork for modern financial systems.
Commodity money's rise marked a significant shift from barter, paving the way for the complex monetary systems we rely on today.
Evolution of Coinage
Coinage has played a crucial role in shaping economies and trade practices. These subsections will explore the origins of coin minting in ancient civilizations and the impact of coins on historical trade and economies.
Ancient Civilizations and Coin Minting
The first recorded use of coins dates back to the 7th century BC in Lydia, now part of modern Turkey. These early coins were made of electrum, a natural alloy of gold and silver, and featured basic designs such as simple punches.
China also began minting coins around this time. During the Zhou Dynasty, roughly 1000 BC, they produced bronze coins shaped like small tools, transitioning to round coins by the Warring States period.
In India, coins known as punch-marked coins appeared as early as the 6th century BC. Each coin bore multiple symbols punched onto silver bars. Greece further refined the art of coinage. The city of Aegina produced silver coins, acting as a benchmark for the Mediterranean region.
The Role of Coins in Trade and Economy
Coins revolutionized trade by providing a standardized medium of exchange. Unlike barter systems, coinage offered consistent value, facilitating smoother transactions and the expansion of markets.
Standardized coins backed by authoritative entities enabled trust in their value. This trust became a cornerstone for economies, reducing the risk inherent in trade and ensuring more reliable transactions.
In Roman times, coinage expanded vastly to support their extensive empire. Silver denarii and gold aurei circulated, reflecting the empire's prosperity and reinforcing its economy.
These developments laid the foundation for modern currency systems, where the principles of standardization, trust, and value continue to underpin economic interactions worldwide.
