In today's financial climate, we are all, naturally, obsessed by debt. Governments are falling as they grapple with the issue and workers are marching against austerity. And the debt affects our personal lives from credit cards through mortgages to student loans. But where has this debt come from? In this fascinating look at money through the ages - including our own unstable future - award-winning financial journalist Philip Coggan shows that the current crisis will pit old against young, rich against poor, taxpayers against public sector and one country against other, leading to a new world order. 'Remarkable . Every page brings a fresh insight or a new surprise. A delight.' Tim Harford, author of The Undercover Economist 'Bold and confident .

This book should be taken very seriously.' John Authers, Financial Times 'The most illuminating account of the financial crisis to appear to date . with a lucidity that conveys deep insights without a trace of jargon.' John Gray, New Statesman 'A masterful history of financial crises.' Stephen King, Independent 'An excellent book . a smart and witty analysis.' David Wighton, The Times.