Well-written and well-documented… This book unquestionably puts the events affecting American life insurance during the critical period from the mid-1880s to 1910 into clearer historical perspective. As a case study, it also substantiates the conclusion of the author that to the traditional sum of external checks on corporate power in a free society, as outlined by Galbraith and others, should be added ‘the complex but significant factor of internal restraints: the problems and consequences inherent in the process of institutional growth and maturity.’
-- Harold F. Williamson American Economic Review

An interesting and provocative interpretation of the behavior of the large American life insurance companies during the quarter century of 1885 to 1910.
-- Orange A. Smalley Journal of Economic History

A remarkably intricate and detailed study.
-- David Rothman Yale Law Journal