Harry White and the American Creed: How a Federal Bureaucrat Created the Modern Global Economy

James Boughton's book "Harry Dexter White: The Mystery Man at the Center of Americas International Economic Policy in the 1930s and 1940s" sheds light on the life and work of Harry Dexter White, a major figure in twentieth-century economic history who was accused of being a Soviet agent but was actually instrumental in setting the terms for the modern global economy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2022
Publisher: Yale University Press

Harry Dexter White, a prominent figure in twentieth-century economic history, has long been shrouded in controversy due to dubious allegations surrounding his role in shaping American international economic policy during the 1930s and 1940s. In his comprehensive and enlightening book, James Boughton seeks to demystify White and shed light on his contributions to the field.

Despite White's undeniable influence on global economic affairs, his reputation has often been overshadowed by accusations of espionage. During the Second World War, he served as the chief advisor on international financial policy to Secretary of the Treasury Henry Morgenthau, a position that took him to Bretton Woods, where he played a pivotal role in establishing the framework for postwar international finance. However, his involvement in espionage charges, followed by his dramatic testimony before the House Un-American Activities Committee and his sudden death from a heart attack a few days later, obscured his significant role in shaping the modern global economy.

In this book, Boughton aims to rehabilitate White's reputation by delving into his life and work. He provides a detailed account of White's upbringing, education, and career trajectory, highlighting his contributions to economics and his role in shaping American foreign policy. Boughton also examines White's interactions with other influential figures, such as John Maynard Keynes, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Winston Churchill, and explores how his ideas influenced the development of international financial institutions and policies.

Through his meticulous research and analysis, Boughton restores White to his rightful place as a central figure in twentieth-century economic history. He challenges the prevailing narrative that White was a Soviet agent and presents a nuanced and balanced view of his life and work. Boughton argues that White's contributions to economics were profound, and that his ideas continue to shape our understanding of global finance and economic policy.

This book is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in the history of economic development and international relations. It provides a comprehensive and accessible account of White's life and work, and sheds light on the complex and often controversial aspects of his legacy. By demystifying White and restoring his reputation, Boughton contributes to our understanding of the twentieth-century economic landscape and the critical role that individuals such as White played in shaping it.

In conclusion, James Boughton's book "Harry Dexter White: The Mystery Man at the Center of Americas International Economic Policy in the 1930s and 1940s" is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the enigmatic figure who played a pivotal role in shaping the modern global economy. Through his meticulous research and analysis, Boughton rehabilitates White's reputation and restores him to his rightful place as a central figure in twentieth-century economic history. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in the history of economic development and international relations.

Weight: 794g
Dimension: 166 x 243 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300253795