This study brings together under the heading of business history an account of the development of leading American financial, commercial, agricultural, transportation, and manufacturing enterprises during the period from the settlement of the colonies to the beginning of the twentieth century. Originally published 1971. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.