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Last time we spoke about the beginning of the battle of Nanjing. As the relentless tide of war approached Nanjing in December 1937, fear gripped its residents. As atrocities unfolded in the countryside, civilians flocked toward safety zones, desperate for refuge. Under the command of General Tang Shengzhi, the Chinese forces prepared for a fierce defense, determined to hold their ground against the technologically superior invaders. Despite heavy losses and internal strife, hopes flickered among the defenders, fueled by the valor of their troops. Key positions like Old Tiger's Cave became battlegrounds, exemplifying the fierce resistance against the Japanese advance. On December 9, as artillery fire enveloped the city, a battle for the Gate of Enlightenment commenced. Both sides suffered grievously, with the Chinese soldiers fighting to the last, unwilling to yield an inch of their soil. Each assault from Japan met with relentless counterattacks, turning Nanjing into a symbol of perseverance amidst impending doom, as the siege marked a critical chapter in the conflict, foreshadowing the brutal events that would follow.   #167 The Battle of Nanjing Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. By mid-December, the landscape surrounding Nanjing was eerily quiet. The Japanese Army marched through what seemed to be desolate fields and mountains, but they were not truly empty. Civilians were scarce, with most having fled, but a few remained in their homes, hiding in cellars and barns, clinging to the hope that the war would bypass them. Meanwhile, thousands of Chinese soldiers, left behind and unable to keep pace with their units, still posed a significant danger to the Japanese forces. The Japanese Army had not truly conquered the territory east and south of Nanjing; they had merely passed through. Mopping-up operations became a top priority. Soldiers from the 16th Infantry Division, stationed near Purple Mountain, spent early December conducting these missions far from the city's walls. “Chinese stragglers may be hiding in this area, and they must be flushed out. Any small structure of no strategic value to the Japanese Army must be burned!” This command rang out to the division's soldiers as they spread across the countryside around Unicorn Gate. Soon, isolated fires began to illuminate the horizon, one for each home. Soldiers from the 9th Infantry Division, who were not directly engaged in combat south of the Gate of Enlightenment, were also conducting similar mopping-up operations. On December 11 at noon, one squad received orders to investigate a suspicious farm building. Although it had been searched previously, movement inside prompted renewed caution. The Japanese entered carefully, moving from room to room. In the basement, they discovered eight Chinese soldiers who offered no resistance, immediately raising their hands in surrender. Bound together, they were brought outside. Using a few Chinese words supplemented by sign language, the Japanese gathered that the Chinese had been in the vicinity where one of their comrades had been killed days earlier. Unanimously, they decided the prisoners should be executed in front of their comrade's grave. Some of the older soldiers hesitated, reluctant to partake in the killings, leaving it to the younger ones to carry out the order. Soon, eight headless bodies lay sprawled before a solitary Japanese grave.  On the morning of December 11, the first soldiers of the 6th Japanese Infantry Division finally spotted the distant city wall of Nanjing. They had been engaged in fierce combat for nearly two days, attempting to dislodge the tenacious defenders of the Yuhuatai plateau, the elite soldiers of the 88th Division. In a desperate bid to maintain their foothold on Yuhuatai, the 88th Division deployed its reserved 528th Regiment along with a battalion of engineers. Despite their efforts, the regiment's ranks had been depleted, filled with inexperienced recruits, and their leadership nearly obliterated, limiting their effectiveness. Under the relentless assaults from the Japanese forces, their defenses began to falter almost immediately. Faced with the stiff resistance at the Gate of Enlightenment, the Japanese shifted their focus to the Chinese Gate on December 11. Japanese aircraft were summoned for tactical air support, forcing the 88th Division's defenders to retreat behind the wall. This withdrawal occurred swiftly and somewhat chaotically, allowing the Japanese to pursue closely. Before the Chinese could regroup, 300 Japanese soldiers had breached the wall. Only the mobilization of all available forces enabled the Chinese to push the attackers back outside. Meanwhile, the left flank of the 88th Division, stationed east of Chinese Gate, remained outside the wall. Here, they clashed with elements of the 9th Japanese Division but faced intense pressure and were compelled to fall back. By the end of the day, the Chinese division had shortened its defensive line, regrouping in front of the city wall. Plans for a nighttime counterattack were ultimately abandoned, as it became clear that the division's soldiers were too fatigued to mount an effective offensive. Overall, it proved to be a successful day for the Japanese 10th Army. Further south, the Kunisaki Detachment successfully crossed the Yangtze River at Cihu village, beginning their advance toward Pukou. Its special amphibious training made the detachment ideally suited for the operation, but its limited numbers, essentially a reinforced infantry regiment, raised concerns at field headquarters about whether it could accomplish the task alone. Prince Asaka proposed transporting part of the 13th Division across the Yangtze further north to sever the railway connecting Tianjin to Pukou, cutting off a potential retreat route for Chinese forces that had escaped Nanjing.  On December 11, Japanese artillery shells rained down relentlessly, targeting both the interior and exterior of Nanjing's city walls. Administrators of the Safety Zone were alarmed to witness several shells landing perilously close to its southern edge. In a bid to provide some semblance of security, American and foreign flags were raised around the zone's perimeter, though their protective influence against artillery fire from miles away was negligible. The leaders of the Safety Zone faced an unexpected dilemma: how to handle lawbreakers with the city courts now out of operation. That day, they encountered a thief caught in the act. As Rabe noted in his diary “We sentence the thief to death, then pardon him and reduce his punishment to 24 hours in jail, and ultimately, due to the absence of a jail, we simply let him go”. Refugees continued to pour in, with a total of 850 having found shelter at Ginling College. Vautrin and her colleagues began to feel that their initial estimate of 2,700 women and children seeking refuge on the campus was overly optimistic. They were soon proven wrong. On the banks of the Yangtze River, hundreds of injured soldiers and civilians were lining up to be ferried across to Pukou, where trains awaited to transport them further inland and away from danger. Many had been waiting for days without food. While ferries made continuous trips across the river to rescue as many as possible, the process was painfully slow. As of late December 10, approximately 1,500 wounded civilians remained stranded on the south bank of the Yangtze. The Japanese forces were confronted by a fiercely determined enemy composed largely of young soldiers from the Training Division. These soldiers had the advantage of having been stationed near Purple Mountain for several years, making them familiar with the terrain. Additionally, they were part of an elite unit, groomed not just in equipment and training but also instilled with a sense of nationalism rooted in Chiang Kai-shek's ideology. Li Xikai, the commander of the division's 3rd Regiment, had set up his command post directly in the path of the primary Japanese advance, yet his regiment continued to resist. Despite the fierce resistance, the Japanese gradually gained control over the Purple Mountain area. General Nakajima Kesago, commander of the 16th Division, visited an artillery observation post early in the day and was pleased to receive reports that his troops had captured two peaks of Purple Mountain and were poised to take the main peak.  Yet there loomed a problem on Nakajima's right flank. A widening gap was emerging between the 16th Division and the 13th Division, which had advanced along the southern bank of the Yangtze. There was a risk that Chinese forces could escape through this lightly guarded area. The 13th Division was stationed in the strategically important river port city of Zhenjiang, preparing to cross the Yangtze. The Central China Area Army ordered the 13th Division to mobilize three infantry battalions and one artillery battalion. This new formation, known as the Yamada Detachment after its commander, Yamada Senji, was tasked with remaining on the Yangtze's south bank and advancing westward to capture two Chinese fortresses on the river: Mt. Wulong and Mt. Mufu. This redeployment alleviated concerns about the gap, allowing the 16th Division to focus on the city wall. As the sun dipped towards the horizon, one Captain Akao Junzo prepared for what he believed would be his final assault. He had been ordered to seize a hill northeast of Sun Yat-sen Gate that overlooked the city entrance. His commander told him “The attack on Nanjing will likely be the last battle of this war, and I hope your company can be at the front when the enemy's lines are breached”. The hill was fortified with numerous machine gun positions, reinforced with mud, bricks, and tiles, and connected by an intricate network of trenches. Dense rows of barbed wire lay before the positions, designed to halt attackers and expose them to machine-gun fire. Additionally, the area was likely heavily mined, and Chinese soldiers maintained a high level of alertness. Akao knew this all too well; when he crawled forward and slightly lifted his head to survey the landscape, he triggered a hail of bullets, one of which grazed his helmet. Around late afternoon, four mountain guns from the regimental artillery began firing on the Chinese positions, sustaining the bombardment for over an hour. By 5:00 pm, as the winter sky darkened, Akao decided it was time to launch the attack. Expecting close-quarters combat, he instructed his men to carry only their rifles and small entrenchment tools. With the entire company poised to move, he dispatched a small group of soldiers ahead to cut openings in the barbed wire while receiving covering fire from the mountain guns and the rifles and machine guns of their comrades. The remainder of the company advanced with swords raised and bayonets fixed. As they approached within about 700 feet of the enemy positions, the artillery bombardment ceased as planned. The enemy, still reeling from the ferocity of the earlier assault, scrambled in a panic from their trenches, retreating in disarray. Akao and his fellow soldiers pressed forward, cutting down any opposition in their path. Seizing the momentum, Akao charged to occupy the hill that had been his target. He found it deserted upon his arrival and sent a triumphant message back to command, reporting that the objective had been achieved. However, the reply he received left him baffled: he was ordered to withdraw with his company and return to their lines. Apparently, the regimental command deemed the position too precarious. Sensing that a precious advantage was being squandered, Akao disregarded the order. Before his company could establish a defensive position on the hill, the Chinese launched a counterattack. Lying down, the Japanese soldiers returned fire while frantically digging into the earth to fortify their position. Gradually, they began to form a rudimentary perimeter at the summit. The fighting continued into the night. Exhausted from days without sleep, many soldiers rotated between guard duty and rest, dozing off intermittently in their shallow trenches, reassuring one another that everything would be alright before drifting back to sleep. They successfully repelled all attempts by the Chinese to reclaim the hill and were eventually relieved. On December 11, after leaving his capital, Chiang Kai-shek took time to reflect on everything that had happened in his diary. He reassured himself that his nationalist revolution would persist, regardless of whether he held Nanjing, “Temporary defeat can be turned into eventual victory.” Yet he did not fear so much the Japanese invasion itself, but rather how the weakening of his nationalist government might allow the Communists to rise. He wrote about how his nation was on the brink of becoming a second Spain. While foreign invasions were undoubtedly disastrous, they could eventually be overcome, if not immediately, then over years or decades. Sometimes, this could be achieved merely by absorbing the outmatched invader and assimilating them into Chinese society. In contrast, internal unrest posed a far more fundamental threat to the survival of any regime. As we have seen in this series, going back to the mid 19th century, was it the foreign empires of Britain, France and Russia that threatened to destroy the Qing dynasty, or was it the internal civil war brought on by the Taiping? As Chiang famously put it “the Japanese were a treatable disease of the skin. Communism however was a disease of the heart”. Chiang could accept a humiliating but rapid retreat from Nanjing. In his view, it would be far more difficult to recover from a bloody yet futile struggle for the city that might cost him what remained of his best troops. A prolonged defensive battle, he reasoned, would be a tragic waste and could shift the balance of power decisively in favor of the Communists. This new mindset was reflected in a telegram he sent late on December 11 to Tang Shengzhi: “If the situation becomes untenable, it is permissible to find the opportune moment to retreat to regroup in the rear in anticipation of future counterattacks.” On December 12, tankettes cautiously plunged into the Yuhuatai plateau. Unexpectedly the Chinese defenders abandoned their positions and rushed down the hillside toward Nanjing's walls. Upon discovering this, the Japanese tankettes opened fire on the retreating Chinese, cutting swathes through the masses and sending bodies tumbling down the slope. Some Japanese infantry caught up, joining in the slaughter and laughing boisterously as they reveled in the chaos. A tankette column escorted a group of engineers to the Nanjing wall and then drove east along the moat until they reached a large gate, flanked by two smaller openings, all securely shut. A chilling message, painted in blue, adorned the gate's surface. Written in Chinese characters, it conveyed a stark warning: “We Swear Revenge on the Enemy.” The wall itself loomed three stories high, but Japanese artillery was already targeting it, this was known as the Chinese Gate. Now that Yuhuatai was virtually in Japanese hands, capturing the gate had become the primary objective. At this location, the wall stood 70 feet tall, protected by a 100-foot moat to the outside. All bridges spanning the moat had been destroyed. The area around the gate was heavily defended, with approximately one machine gun positioned every 50 yards atop the wall. Inside, the gate was reinforced with a formidable barrier of sandbags. Chinese infantry armed with mortars and small arms could fire down on the Japanese attackers while others had established isolated positions in nearby buildings that had survived the “scorched earth” policy. Taking the gate and the heavily fortified southwestern corner of the wall was the responsibility of the 6th Division. The division was deploying its regiments: the 13th, the 47th, and the 23rd from east to west. The 45th Regiment, the final unit of the division, was tasked with skirting the western side of the wall and advancing northward, aiming for the Yangtze docks at Xiaguan. The soldiers of the division had already formed a rough understanding of the formidable defenses they were facing. During the night between December 11 and 12, they had advanced nearly to the wall, gathering intelligence to prepare for an assault at dawn. As planned, the assault commenced. Field artillery fired round after round at the gate, but the wall sustained minimal damage. A Japanese tank rolled up, firing point-blank at the gate but producing no visible effect. Next, it was the engineers' turn. A “dare-to-die” squad, equipped with long ladders, crept as close to the wall as possible without exposing themselves and then sprinted the final distance. The moment they broke into the open, a Chinese machine gun opened fire, cutting them down to the last man. At noon, three Japanese planes soared overhead, dropping bombs near a Chinese-held building outside the gate. The smoke from the resulting fire briefly obscured the area. Seizing the opportunity presented by the reduced visibility, a large group of Chinese soldiers holed up inside attempted to dash back to the wall. The Japanese spotted their movement instantly, and every soldier in the line opened fire. The fleeing Chinese were mowed down like ripe grass, collapsing in heaps.  Meanwhile the battle for the Gate of Enlightenment was drawing to a close. On the Chinese side of the wall, confusion reigned regarding the overall situation on December 12. Chen Yiding, brigade commander of the 87th Division, had been warned that heads would roll if the Gate of Enlightenment fell to the Japanese. Hearing the sounds of fierce fighting on the edges of Yuhuatai and seeing the smoke rise from numerous fires on Purple Mountain, he was left in the dark about their implications, surrounded by the fog of war. Chen's troops had finally managed to establish a telephone link to the rear, but by mid-afternoon, it was cut off, likely due to a stray artillery shell. After dark, Chen sent an officer to his left flank to make contact with the Chinese forces there. The report that followed was far from reassuring. A unit from Guangdong Province was abandoning its positions and retreating north, attempting to exit the capital through one of the gates in the city wall. The officer had attempted to inquire about their destination, but the retreating soldiers ignored him. With neighboring units evacuating autonomously, a significant gap was opening in the Chinese line atop the wall between the Gate of Enlightenment and Sun Yat-sen Gate. A frightening possibility emerged: the Japanese could walk right in across the undefended southeastern corner of the city wall and surround Chen Yiding's troops before they had a chance to withdraw. The situation was becoming untenable, a fact underscored by the artillery fire raining down on Chen's position. Despite this, retreat was not a simple decision for Chen and the other commanders of the 87th Division. They had been garrisoned in Nanjing before the war, and the city had become home to many of the soldiers. Shortly after midnight, Chen called a meeting with his senior officers. After considerable discussion, they concluded that they had no choice but to withdraw. Nonetheless, Chen insisted that everyone sign a document confirming their support for this decision, recognizing the potential danger of taking such a significant step without consensus. After all, his own life had been threatened if the situation deteriorated further. Soon after, the Chinese began to move out of their positions. The Japanese were initially unaware of the retreat; all they noticed during the night between December 12 and 13 was that the Chinese artillery fire began to grow increasingly distant. By 4:00 am it had stopped completely. The few remaining Chinese were quickly overwhelmed and killed. In the end, the gate, which had cost so many lives during the seemingly endless battle, was taken almost effortlessly by the Japanese. Soldiers of the 9th Division, stationed outside the wall, scrambled up the slope created by the previous days' shelling. Once at the top, they thrust their hands into the air, shouting “Banzai!” so loudly that they believed their families back home in Japan might hear them. Tears streamed down their faces as soldiers embraced and shook hands, reflecting on the friends they had lost throughout the months of fighting, from Shanghai to their current position. They reassured each other that their sacrifices had been worth it for this very moment. On December 12,  the slopes of Purple Mountain  were ablaze. Zhou Zhenqiang, commander of the Training Division's 1st Brigade, led his men in a desperate struggle to maintain control of the mountain's forested peaks. However, they were being overwhelmed by the better-equipped Japanese troops, and Zhou knew it was only a matter of time before he would have to relinquish his position. Zhou found himself unable to obtain any information from his superiors about the overall situation, despite repeated attempts to contact the Training Division's headquarters. He dispatched a runner, who returned a few hours later with disheartening news: the divisional commander had left late in the afternoon. Other reports indicated a general breakdown in command. The elite 88th Division was in disarray, and an entire division of Guangdong troops, that being the same force that had abandoned the wall near the Gate of Enlightenment, had been spotted marching out of the Gate of Great Peace, seemingly intent on returning home. With indications of collapse all around him, Zhou decided to execute an orderly withdrawal from Purple Mountain, leaving a small contingent behind to cover the retreat. His troops entered through the city wall at Sun Yat-sen Gate and marched in disciplined columns through the streets of Nanjing, where signs of imminent anarchy were evident. Chinese soldiers were scattered everywhere, speaking a cacophony of dialects, yet they appeared to lack any coherent command. Tang Shengzhi's grip on the situation was weakening. Meanwhile Japan's 13th Air Group had been busy with the final stages of the battle for Nanjing.  In the morning of December 12, after raiding Chinese positions at Sun Yat-sen Gate, they  received new orders. Intelligence indicated that Chinese ships, laden with troops, were moving up the Yangtze from Nanjing. Japanese infantry on the ground could only watch as this prize slipped through their fingers, and the army requested air support. All available planes at Changzhou, a mix of A4N fighters and Yokosuka B4Y bombers, totaling 24 aircraft, were assembled for the crucial mission. The day was clear, providing excellent visibility as the pilots headed toward the section of the Yangtze where they believed the vessels would be, based on reasonable assumptions about their speed. At 1:30 p.m., 28 nautical miles upriver from Nanjing, the pilots sighted four ships. Trusting their military intelligence, they saw no need for further identification. Initially, the B4Ys bombed the vessels from a considerable height. One bomb struck the lead ship, a military vessel, disabling its forward gun and snapping the foremast. Then, a first wave of six A4Ns dove down over the line of ships, attacking individually. In total, they dropped about 20 bombs. Several exploded close enough to the lead vessel to damage its hull and injure crew members on deck. A 30-caliber machine gun on board was manned, with gunners stripped to the waist firing at the Japanese planes but failing to score a hit. Several of the A4Ns strafed the ship with machine-gun fire. After 20 minutes of sustained bombing and strafing, the result was utter devastation. The lead vessel was stuck in mid-river, riddled with bullets, aflame, and listing to starboard. Two other ships were beached on the right bank, while another sat stranded on the left. Satisfied with their mission, the Japanese aviators broke off and returned to their temporary base. Upon their landing in Changzhou, instead of receiving accolades, the pilots were met with reprimands. Why hadn't they sunk all the vessels? They were ordered to return immediately to finish the job. Though they didn't find the original targets, they stumbled upon four other vessels closer to Nanjing. One aircraft dove toward the ships, releasing a 60-kilogram bomb that struck one vessel. As the pilot pulled up, he caught sight of the Union Jack on the hull and realized his mistake; he had inadvertently targeted neutral ships. The other pilots recognized the significance of the markings as well and withheld their bombs. The vessel was identified as the SS Wantung. Soon after, the Japanese pilots understood that the ships they had attacked earlier upriver from Nanjing were also Western; three of them were Standard Oil tankers. The last vessel, which had sustained the most damage, was the USS Panay, a lightly armed flat-bottomed gunboat,  tasked with protecting American lives and property along China's longest river. The Panay had been instrumental in evacuating American citizens from the war zone in November and December. On the day it was attacked, the Panay was carrying four American embassy personnel and ten American and foreign journalists to safety. The ship's doctor converted the engine room into a makeshift sick bay, treating a steady stream of injured personnel. By the end, he was tending to 45 patients. The soldiers and passengers were evacuated in two small boats to a nearby marshy island covered in reeds, where they hid, fearful of further strafing. From their hiding place, they watched as a Japanese powerboat filled with soldiers approached the Panay. After firing more volleys at the vessel, the soldiers boarded it, remaining for only five minutes before departing. The American flag still flew from the bow at that time. At 3:54 pm, the Panay rolled over to starboard and sank in seven to ten fathoms of water. Cold and frightened, the survivors waded through knee-deep mud to a nearby village, assisting those too severely wounded to walk.  Meanwhile back at Chinese Gate, the mutual slaughter continued into the afternoon of December 12. The Japanese made no significant progress, although their failure was not for lack of trying. The commanders of the 6th Division had strategically placed the boundary between the 13th and 47th Regiments exactly at the gate, encouraging both units to compete to be the first to seize the position. Yet, despite their efforts, it became clear that willpower alone was not enough to breach the Chinese defenses at Chinese Gate. In peacetime, Nanjing's city gates served as entry points into a bustling capital, but in wartime, they transformed into heavily fortified and nearly impregnable strongholds. Any Japanese officer hoping for a swift victory would soon be disappointed; by early afternoon, the situation at the gate had devolved into a stalemate. The section of the wall manned by the 47th Infantry Regiment, located east of the gate, also saw little meaningful movement as the day wore on. Japanese soldiers, pinned down by Chinese fire from atop the wall, could do little more than take pride in a symbolic triumph. A small group of soldiers had managed to reach the wall and place a ladder against it, but it fell nearly ten feet short of the top. One soldier skillfully scaled the last portion, gripping protruding bricks and crevices of the nearly vertical surface. The entire Japanese front watched him with bated breath. He reached the top and unfurled a Japanese flag, but it immediately drew intense Chinese fire, forcing him to duck for cover. Soon, he vanished from sight, raising concerns among his compatriots about his fate. Later, it was revealed that he had taken refuge in a depression in the wall, waiting out the battle. The real breakthrough of the day would occur west of the gate. The 23rd Regiment was deployed there with orders to capture sections of the wall near the southwestern corner. It became evident that the wall could not be scaled without first bringing up artillery to create gaps in its solid masonry. A significant portion of the divisional fire support, 36 small-caliber mountain guns, four 100mm howitzers, and four 150mm howitzers, was assigned to this section. Artillery observers were also sent to the 23rd Regiment's forward command post to coordinate with the infantry and assess the effects of the shelling. By mid-afternoon, the artillery bombardment had created a ravine-like hole in the wall large enough for an assault. The 23rd Regiment positioned its 2nd and 3rd Battalions at the front, with the 1st Battalion held in reserve. First, the engineers undertook the challenging task. As the assault commenced, the rest of the regiment provided covering fire to force the Chinese defenders to seek shelter while the engineers charged into the 70-foot-wide moat. Once a human chain formed, they held up ladders as a makeshift bridge, allowing a company from the 3rd Battalion to rush across and into the gap in the wall. As the batteries switched to close infantry support, they laid down a barrage around the breach to prevent Chinese interference as the attack entered its decisive phase. The Japanese soldiers scrambled up the rubble, created by the artillery fire, which rose several dozen feet high. Shortly before 5:00 p.m., the Japanese seized control of the southwestern segment of the wall. The Chinese launched several counterattacks to reclaim the position, but none were successful. This action ultimately sealed Nanjing's fate; beyond the wall, there was nothing left to save the ancient city and its inhabitants. As defeat appeared imminent, more and more civilians sought safety in foreign-controlled areas, though danger still loomed large. Bits of shrapnel narrowly missed Dr. Robert Wilson while he operated in the Safety Zone. Every square foot of John Rabe's property became filled with families, many camping in the open with their own blankets. Some sought refuge under his large swastika flag, believing that this would make the area especially “bomb-proof” given the growing friendship between Tokyo and Berlin; they assumed Japanese aviators would think twice before targeting a region seemingly under German protection. With just hours left before the Japanese Army was expected to gain control, the residents of Nanjing made their last preparations, prioritizing personal survival. The brutal behavior of Japanese troops in conquered territories fueled intense concern over the possible fate of injured soldiers who might fall into enemy hands. As Nanjing's last hours as a free city unfolded, it became imperative for local hospitals to evacuate as many wounded soldiers as possible across the Yangtze. On December 12, doctors found a motorboat stranded on the riverbank, having apparently broken down. They managed to repair it and ferried several hundred patients to safety throughout the day. Throughout December 12, the citizens of Nanjing were subjected to the unsettling cacophony of heavy shelling, mixed with the roar of bombers overhead. By evening, the entire horizon south of the city glowed with flames. The sound of fighting emanated from all directions, continuing long after sunset. However, in the middle of the night, activity began to wan. Every few minutes, the muffled thuds of shells could still be heard, though their origin was unclear. For the most part, an eerie silence prevailed, as if the city was holding its breath in anticipation of the final onslaught. Chiang Kai-shek had indicated he would understand if Tang chose to abandon the capital. However, on December 12, he reversed his stance, sending a telegram to Tang expressing optimism that the Nanjing garrison could hold out significantly longer. In his words “If you do not shy away from sacrifices, you will be able to hold high the banner of our nation and our army, and this could transform defeat into victory. If you can hold out one more day, you will add to the pride of the Chinese nation. If you can hold out for half a month or more, the domestic and international situation could see a substantial change.” Tang adopted a hardline approach toward any signs of defeatism among his troops. When he learned that General Sun Yuanliang, commander of the formerly elite 88th Division, was leading approximately 2,000 men from the Gate of Enlightenment to the dock area, Tang acted swiftly. He dispatched Song Xilian, the commanding general of the 36th Division, to halt the retreat. When the two units met, a fratricidal clash nearly occurred. Fortunately, the 88th Division agreed to return to the gate and continue fighting. Whatever Tang's plans, they were rendered irrelevant at 3:00 pm,  when he received another telegram from Chiang, this time ordering a full retreat. Rumors that the Chinese Army had started evacuating Nanjing triggerec panic among many units. Thousands abandoned their positions and joined the throngs of soldiers and civilians moving slowly down the city's main avenues. The crowd seemed to have collectively decided that getting a boat out of Nanjing was the best option, and by late afternoon, a solid mass of humanity stretched for miles through the city toward the dock areas at Xiaguan. To reach Xiaguan, everyone had to pass through Yijiang Gate. This relatively modern structure had served as the main entry point for visitors arriving in Nanjing by boat in recent decades and now only half of the main entrance was open. A crowd of that size trying to get through such a narrow bottleneck was a recipe for disaster. Those unfortunate enough to be right at the front felt the crushing pressure of tens of thousands of individuals pushing from behind. In that densely packed throng, stumbling and falling to the ground was akin to a death sentence; anyone who went down was inevitably crushed by the oncoming waves of terrified civilians and soldiers. As chaos erupted, discipline evaporated entirely. Officers lost control over their men, leading to infighting among the soldiers. Pushing and shoving escalated into fistfights, and trucks drove directly into the mass of people to force their way through. Tanks, emitting sounds akin to prehistoric beasts, rolled through the mob, crushing many under their weight. Amid the madness, some soldiers, driven by frustration over the lack of movement, began shooting into the crowd at random. To relieve the pressure at Yijiang Gate, some units were ordered to exit Nanjing via the Gate of Great Peace at the northeastern corner of the city wall. Upon arrival, they found the entrance nearly sealed shut. Thick walls of sandbags had been erected around it, leaving only a narrow opening through which one person could pass at a time. Massive crowds fought among themselves to get through; even under perfect order and discipline, it would have taken the entire night and most of the following day for everyone to pass. In the midst of the frantic chaos, it could take a week or more. During the night of the 12th, a select group of Japanese soldiers, chosen for the offensive, stripped their equipment down to the bare essentials: rifles, bayonets, and helmets. They avoided any gear that could produce a metallic noise, alerting the Chinese defenders to their approach. Stealthily, they moved up to the wall, carrying bamboo ladders tied together in threes for added height. Ascending the rungs, they ensured not to make a sound that could betray their position to an alert Chinese sentry. Everything hinged on remaining undetected; even a couple of hand grenades tossed down the wall could halt the attack in its tracks. Reaching the top without being noticed, the soldiers quickly fanned out. Chinese soldiers stationed on the wall saw the swift dark figures and opened fire, but it was too late to thwart the assault. A brief fight ensued; most Japanese soldiers were too close to use their rifles and immediately resorted to their bayonets. The stunned defenders were pushed back, and the successful assault team established a perimeter, awaiting reinforcements from outside the wall. They didn't have to wait long. A massive assault along the length of the 6th Division's front line commenced at dawn on December 13. Japanese artillery concentrated its fire on a narrow section of the city wall, progressively working its way from the bottom up. Gradually, the shells formed a slope of debris that soldiers could use to scale the wall. A short air raid was executed, and after the planes had weakened the remaining resistance, a group of soldiers rushed up the slope. While their comrades provided covering fire, they climbed the last stretch, rolling down a rope ladder. Within minutes, 40 other Japanese soldiers had joined them. By 10:30 am, the Rising Sun flag was flying over the wall. The Japanese invaders were met with a horrific sight at the top of the wall. Beyond lay the grim aftermath of days of shelling. Some houses were leveled, while others burned. The ground was littered with bodies, some decapitated or disemboweled, and pools of blood surrounded them. As Chiang Kai-shek's order to abandon the city gradually filtered down to the troops manning the wall around Nanjing, things began to move rapidly.  By late morning on December 13, all the major entry points into the city had fallen to the Japanese. These included Chinese Gate in the southwest, the Gate of Enlightenment in the south, and Sun Yat-sen Gate in the east. The first thing that struck the Japanese soldiers upon ascending the wall was how starkly different it was from their expectations. They had anticipated a bustling city teeming with people, but instead, the area adjacent to the wall was characterized by farm plots, resembling countryside more than an urban center. The second notable observation was the complete absence of inhabitants. Cautiously, the Japanese soldiers entered the city they had just conquered, their bayonets fixed and rifles at the ready. Yet, surprisingly, very few shots were fired. After weeks of fearing death and injury, once the immediate danger receded, a certain stupor settled in. For most civilians in Nanjing, their initial encounter with the city's new rulers was uneventful. It took several hours for the Japanese to move from the wall into the urban parts of the capital. It was not until around noon that residents noticed the first groups of Japanese soldiers marching down the streets in clusters of six to twelve men. Initially, many met the conquerors with relief, hoping they would be treated fairly. Their optimism was bolstered by Japanese planes dropping leaflets over the city, reassuring residents of humane treatment. I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. On December 9, fierce battles erupted, especially at the Gate of Enlightenment. Despite heavy fighting, the Chinese showed remarkable resilience, turning Nanjing into a symbol of determination. However, the tide shifted as overwhelming Japanese artillery and tactics began to breach defenses. By December 13, as chaos engulfed the city, the invaders claimed victory, but not without significant loss. Civilians, caught amid the destruction, clung to hope amid despair.

Lead in gasoline powered cars have killed more people than those that died in World War Two. That's the astonishing claim of David Obst who, in his new Saving Ourselves From Big Car, lays out a strategy to kick our self-destructive automobile addiction. The former investigative reporter, who worked with Seymour Hersh on the My Lai massacre story and represented Woodward and Bernstein for All the President's Men, argues that the auto industry suppressed knowledge about lead's deadly effects for 70 years. More controversially, Obst claims electric vehicles are no better due to the lead in batteries. The only safe future is one without cars, he insists, pointing to car-free communities like Tempe, Arizona and Taipei, Taiwan as models for breaking what he calls our addiction to automobiles.1. Lead in gasoline killed more people than World War II Obst claims that from 1927 to the 1990s, lead additives in gasoline caused more deaths globally than WWII, citing World Health Organization statistics - though interviewer Andrew Keen found this claim conspiratorial.2. Electric vehicles aren't the solution Surprisingly, Obst argues EVs are just as dangerous as gas cars because their batteries contain lead. He points to Tesla fires in the California Palisades spreading lead pollution as evidence of this ongoing problem.3. The auto industry suppressed the truth for 70 years The Ethel Corporation (formed by Standard Oil, DuPont, and GM) allegedly kept lead's deadly effects secret through lobbying and silencing critics, including exiling Caltech scientist Claire Patterson who tried to expose the danger.4. Americans are "addicted" to cars Inspired by his granddaughter telling him "you are the traffic," Obst argues we must treat car dependence like any other addiction - acknowledging that 30% of gasoline is burned just looking for parking spaces.5. Car-free communities are the only answer Obst profiles successful car-free zones from Tempe, Arizona (6,000 residents, no cars allowed) to Taipei's bicycle-centric system, arguing for gradual implementation of car-free neighborhoods rather than overnight transformation.Keen On America is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit keenon.substack.com/subscribe

Por años le creímos a Amazon: que apenas ganaba dinero con su tienda, que lo único rentable era AWS y que su obsesión era el cliente, no la utilidad.Pero hoy, una demanda antimonopolio histórica está poniendo en duda toda esa narrativa.La FTC asegura que el verdadero tesoro oculto está en el marketplace de terceros: un negocio hiperrentable que Amazon nunca ha querido mostrar con transparencia. Y si eso se confirma, el imperio de Jeff Bezos podría verse como lo que siempre negó ser: un monopolio disfrazado de pobre.En este episodio te contamos:⚡ Cómo Bezos pasó de vender libros en un garage a controlar el 40% del ecommerce en EE.UU.⚡ El origen secreto de AWS y por qué fue el golpe de suerte más grande de Amazon.⚡ La demanda que podría cambiarlo todo: comisiones abusivas, algoritmos manipulados y márgenes ocultos.⚡ Comparativos con Google, Apple y hasta Standard Oil para entender qué está en juego.

Welcome to Unpacked, America 250, a mini series celebrating the music, art, food, and more that makes America, America—in honor of our nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. The mini series is part of Afar's "52 Places to Travel in the U.S. This Year" package, and in this third episode, host Aislyn Greene takes us to Florida to explore the architectural fantasy that transformed swampland into America's playground. From Henry Flagler's gilded age railroad hotels to Carl Fisher's dredged Miami Beach paradise, this episode reveals how visionary tycoons and bold architects created the Florida Dream—one stunning hotel at a time. On this episode you'll learn How Henry Flagler, Standard Oil vice president, sparked Florida's transformation with luxury hotels along his railroad route from St. Augustine to Key West Why the 1893 Chicago World's Fair and 1914 San Diego World's Fair launched America's obsession with Mediterranean Revival architecture The story behind Carl Fisher's audacious creation of Miami Beach through dredging Biscayne Bay and building Art Deco masterpieces How the 1926 Florida land boom crashed spectacularly due to railroad overload and a devastating hurricane What Streamlined Modern and Googie architecture reveal about America's post-war optimism and space age dreams Why Florida's architectural preservation depends on tourism dollars and high-end development Featured Expert: Jonathan Lammers, an architectural historian based in Tallahassee Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of American Dynasties, we pick up where we left off—at the height of Standard Oil's power. John D. Rockefeller's empire controlled more than 90% of the U.S. oil market, but cracks were beginning to show.We'll follow the rise of investigative journalist Ida Tarbell, whose groundbreaking exposé revealed the hidden tactics behind Standard Oil's success. We'll explore the wave of public outrage her work ignited, the legal battles that reached all the way to the Supreme Court, and the landmark 1911 decision that shattered Rockefeller's monopoly.This is the story of how one man's business brilliance collided with the growing demand for fairness in the American marketplace—and how the fall of Standard Oil forever changed the way America does business.

It's time for another Tuxedo Ball with plenty of beauties, so has this year's most eligible bachelor finally found his future wife among them?October 1933, the top 50 debutantes of this social season mix with the most eligible bachelors at the ultra exclusive Tuxedo Park's Autumn Ball. Will “Jakey” John Jacob Astor VI, “Alfy” Alfred Vanderbilt, Jr., Atwater “Atty” Kent, Jr., Pierre Barbey, Jr., or David Rockefeller find their future brides among these beauties? Amongst the best buds, prized debutantes include Virginia “Ginnie” Kent, Eileen Gillespie, Ellen “Tucky” French, Beatrice “Bea” Wagstaff, and Margaret “Peggy” Dorrance.Other people and subjects include:Doris Duke, James H.R. Cromwell aka “Jimmy,” Eva Stotesbury, “Jakey” John Jacob Astor VI, William “Sam” Van Alen, Elizabeth “Betty” Kent, “Alfy” Alfred Vanderbilt, Jr., Atwater “Atty” Kent, Jr., Virginia “Ginnie” Kent, Eileen Gillespie, Ellen “Tucky” French, Dorothy “Dolly” de Milhau, Pierre Barbey, Jr., David Rockefeller, Beatrice “Bea” Wagstaff, and Margaret “Peggy” Dorrance, Leta Morris, Antonio “Toni” Frissell, Alice Andre, Alida Liviningston, Mary Schuyler Schieffelin, Emily Winslow, Joan Blair, Cornelia Blakely, Gilbert Keech, Atwater Kent, Mabel Lucas Kent, Jonathan Kent, John Rockefeller, Jr., Caroline Astor, Caroline “Carrie” Astor Wilson, British King George V, British Queen Mary, Cholly Knickerbocker, George Washington, Standard Oil heirs, Campbell Soup heiress, Brinton family, Pennsylvania Society for Sons of the American Revolution, Vogue feature, bow at Court of St. James, colonial, Gilded Age, new money, radio pioneer, industrialist, Wall Street, debutante goals, dance card, stag line, wallflowers, cutting in, debutantes, buds, bounders, bachelors, heirs, heiresses, society hostess, Junior League, junior assemblies, charity, horsey set, yachting, finishing school, sculpture, social standing, weddings, engagements, Tuxedo Club, Tuxedo Park, NY, Long Island, Newport, New York City, Philadelphia, Montecito, CA, Paris, Africa big game trip, trends, manners, Ward McAllister, Pierre Lorillard, William Waldorf Astor, Bruce Price, Emily Price Post, Edwin Post, Prince Edward – Prince of Wales – King Edward VII, James Potter, Griswold “Grizzy” Lorillard, tuxedo coat, men's fashion, military mess jacket, Marlene Dietrich, Fred Astaire, Sean Connery, James Bond – Dr. No, Rat Pack, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Jr., Etiquette: In Society, In Business, In Politics and At Home According to Emily Post, Vanity Fair, Collier's, McCall's, Cotillion, Easter eggs, seeds and plotlines, George R.R. Martin, gardener, architect, writer's block, teasers, hints, dating wasteland, dating apocalypse, New York Times – “The Trouble With Wanting Men.” MGTOW (men going their own way), incels, porn, women's financial demands, Manolo Blahniks, A.I. sex robots & chatbots, virtual partners, human – A.I. wedding in Japan, sex robots, AI chatbots, liberal women dating boycott of Republic and conservative men, 100 years of dating, courtship, fatigue, changing rules, Jeff Bezos, Lauren Sanchez, Amazon, Venice wedding, public spectacle, HBO's The Gilded Age, Apple TV's The Buccaneers, weddings, scandals, engagements,…--Extra Notes / Call to Action:Million Podcasts – As The Money Burns listed #14 of Top 20 Economic History Podcastshttps://www.millionpodcasts.com/economic-history-podcasts/Share, like, subscribe--Archival Music provided by Past Perfect Vintage Music, www.pastperfect.com.Opening Music: My Heart Belongs to Daddy by Billy Cotton, Album The Great British Dance BandsSection 1 Music: Top Hat, White Tie and Tails by Carroll Gibbons & Boy Friends, Album Sophistication – Songs of the ThirtiesSection 2 Music: I Only Have Eyes for You by Freddy Gardner, Album EleganceSection 3 Music: From the Top of Your Head by Carroll Gibbons & The Savoy Orpheans, Album The Great British Dance BandsEnd Music: My Heart Belongs to Daddy by Billy Cotton, Album The Great British Dance Bands--https://asthemoneyburns.com/X / TW / IG – @asthemoneyburnsX / Twitter – https://x.com/asthemoneyburnsInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/asthemoneyburns/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/asthemoneyburns/

There are traders, and then there are investors, and the major difference is that traders focus on short term market tends, while investors seek value with a long-term outlook. Donna and Nathan discuss strategies employed by famed investor Ron Baron, founder of Baron Capital, and how patience and thoughtful analysis guided his companyâs success. Also, on our MoneyTalk Moment in Financial History, we tell the story of how Standard Oil shaped American industry, and sparked the birth of modern antitrust law. Hosts: Donna Sowa Allard, CFP®, AIF® & Nathan Beauvais, CFP®, CIMA®; Air Date: 7/9/2025; Original Air Dates: 1/4/2023 & 9/7/2023. Have a question for the hosts? Visit sowafinancial.com/moneytalk to join the conversation!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John D Rockefeller built his fortune refining oil and founding Standard Oil. A pioneer of the U.S. business trust, he helped shape the structure of the modern corporation. His influence lives on in companies like Chevron, ExxonMobil, and ConocoPhillips, and in institutions like the Rockefeller Foundation. But not everyone saw him as a visionary. President Theodore Roosevelt branded the Rockefeller family a “malefactor of great wealth,” and Rockefeller's monopoly helped spark America's first antitrust laws. To some, he was a ruthless robber baron; to others, a generous philanthropist who gave away over $500 million. BBC business editor Simon Jack and journalist Zing Tsjeng unpack the contradictions of Rockefeller's empire. Can great giving make up for great power?Good Bad Billionaire is the podcast exploring the lives of the super-rich and famous, tracking their wealth, philanthropy, business ethics and success. There are leaders who made their money in Silicon Valley, on Wall Street and in high street fashion. From iconic celebrities and CEOs to titans of technology, the podcast unravels tales of fortune, power, economics, ambition and moral responsibility, before inviting you to make up your own mind: are they good, bad or just another billionaire?

The Author Events Series presents Paul Muldoon  | Joy in Service on Rue Tagore: Poems  REGISTER In Conversation with Daisy Fried  Since his 1973 debut, New Weather, Paul Muldoon has created some of the most original and memorable poetry of the past half century. Joy in Service on Rue Tagore sees him writing with the same verve and distinction that have consistently won him the highest accolades. Here, from artichokes to zinc, Muldoon navigates an alphabet of image and history, through barleymen and Irish slavers to the last running wolf in Ulster. The search involves the accumulated bric-a-brac of a life, and a reckoning along the way of gains against loss. In the poet's skillful hands, ancient maps are unfurled and brought into focus--the aggregation of Imperial Rome and the dismantling of Standard Oil, the pogroms of a Ukrainian ravine and of a Belfast shipyard. Through modern medicine and warfare, disaster and repair, these poems are electric in their energy, while profoundly humane in their line of inquiry. Paul Muldoon was born in County Armagh in 1951. He now lives in New York. A former radio and television producer for the BBC in Belfast, he has taught at Princeton University for thirty-five years. He is the author of fourteen previous collections of poetry, including Moy Sand and Gravel, for which he won the 2003 Pulitzer Prize. Daisy Fried is the author of five books of poetry: My Destination (forthcoming next year from Flood Editions and Carcanet Press), The Year the City Emptied, Women's Poetry: Poems and Advice, My Brother is Getting Arrested Again, a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle, and She Didn't Mean to Do It. She has been awarded Guggenheim, Hodder and Pew Fellowships. A core faculty member in the MFA Program for Writers at Warren Wilson College, and an occasional poetry critic for the New York Times, Poetry Foundation and elsewhere, she has lived in Philadelphia for decades, but will be moving to San Francisco at the end of the summer.  The 2024/25 Author Events Series is presented by Comcast. Because you love Author Events, please make a donation when you register for this event to ensure that this series continues to inspire Philadelphians. Books will be available for purchase at the library on event night! All tickets are non-refundable. (recorded 5/14/2025)

In this episode of American Dynasties, we explore the meteoric rise of John D. Rockefeller and the creation of Standard Oil—an empire that would dominate American industry like no other. From Rockefeller's early days in Cleveland to the revolutionary tactics he used to build his monopoly, we unravel how he brought order to a chaotic industry and amassed unprecedented wealth and power.But beneath the success story lies a darker reality: communities crushed under the weight of Rockefeller's ambition and small businesses forced out in the name of progress. Join us as we peel back the layers of a complex legacy—one that redefined the American Dream and set the stage for a national reckoning.

In the thrilling episode "A Minor Case Of Murder" from the classic radio program "Let George Do It," proudly sponsored by Standard Oil and Chevron, listeners are drawn into a perplexing mystery. Chuck Wilson, a well-regarded member of the lively "Bearcat Social Club," takes it upon himself to enlist the services of the sharp-witted private investigator, George Valentine. Their urgent mission: to exonerate their fellow club member, Dan Corey, who stands accused of the shocking crime of fatally knifing his own stepfather.The narrative unfolds with the unsettling premise that one of the jovial members of the Bearcat Social Club has unexpectedly landed himself in dire straits. Imprisoned and facing a murder charge, the situation appears grim for Dan Corey. However, his loyal companions within the Bearcat Social Club harbor a steadfast belief in his innocence. Knowing his character and perhaps sensing inconsistencies in the accusations, they pool their resources and decide to bring in the seasoned expertise of George Valentine. Tasked with unraveling the truth, Valentine must delve into the circumstances surrounding the stepfather's death, meticulously examine the evidence, and navigate a web of potential suspects and hidden motives to prove Dan Corey's innocence and restore his freedom. The episode promises a captivating journey filled with twists, turns, and the signature wit and investigative prowess of George Valentine.

This Day in Legal History: Standard Oil Breaks UpOn May 15, 1911, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a landmark decision in Standard Oil Co. of New Jersey v. United States, finding that Standard Oil had violated the Sherman Antitrust Act by engaging in monopolistic practices. The Court unanimously ruled that Standard Oil's dominance over the oil industry—achieved through aggressive acquisitions, predatory pricing, and exclusive agreements—constituted an illegal restraint of trade. As a remedy, the Court ordered the breakup of Standard Oil into 34 separate and independent companies, a dramatic reshaping of the American oil landscape. Among the entities created were companies that would later become industry giants in their own right, including Exxon, Mobil, Chevron, and Amoco.The decision was a defining moment in U.S. antitrust enforcement, signaling the federal government's willingness to confront corporate consolidation. It aimed to restore competition and prevent the recurrence of monopolistic control in vital sectors of the economy. However, over the next century, many of the separated entities gradually reconsolidated. Notably, Exxon and Mobil merged in 1999 to form ExxonMobil, while Chevron absorbed both Gulf Oil and Texaco, and BP later acquired Amoco.Today, a majority of the original 34 companies—or their direct successors—are now part of just a few massive corporations. This reconsolidation serves as a cautionary tale: without vigilant antitrust enforcement post-breakup, market dominance can re-emerge in new forms. The Standard Oil saga demonstrates not only the power of antitrust law but also its limitations if not actively maintained. It underscores that breaking up monopolies is only one step—the preservation of competition requires ongoing oversight.The EPA announced it will weaken several Biden-era regulations on PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” in drinking water. Specifically, the agency plans to rescind enforceable limits on three types of PFAS—PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA (also known as GenX)—as well as on combinations of those and PFBS. At the same time, the EPA is giving water systems two extra years, until 2031, to comply with limits on PFOA and PFOS, the two most well-known and studied PFAS chemicals, citing the challenges especially for smaller and rural systems.The original Biden administration rule had set an enforceable limit of 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and PFOS and a non-enforceable goal of zero exposure due to their cancer and health risks. The EPA says it will revisit its regulatory decisions on the other PFAS types it is now rolling back. Administrator Lee Zeldin framed the delay as necessary flexibility while maintaining protections against the most harmful chemicals, but environmental groups like the Environmental Working Group blasted the move as a concession to industry that puts public health at risk. Some state-level regulators expressed caution and said more time is needed to evaluate the impact of rescinding the additional PFAS limits.EPA Moves to Weaken Biden-era PFAS Limits for Drinking WaterU.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appeared before Congress for the first time in his new role, facing bipartisan scrutiny over his department's proposed 2026 budget, mass layoffs, and his response to a growing measles outbreak. Since taking office in February, Kennedy has overseen the dismissal of roughly 10,000 workers across major health agencies, aligning with broader Trump administration efforts to downsize the federal government. His budget plan calls for deep cuts, including $18 billion from the National Institutes of Health and $3.6 billion from the CDC.Lawmakers questioned Kennedy's controversial stance on vaccines—particularly during an outbreak that has resulted in over 1,000 infections and three deaths, largely among unvaccinated populations. Representative Rosa DeLauro accused Kennedy of promoting misinformation and endangering public health. Senator Bill Cassidy, who supported Kennedy's confirmation based on promises to uphold vaccine access and collaborate with Congress, emphasized the need for transparency and reassurance amid sweeping departmental changes.Kennedy defended the workforce reductions as a return to pre-COVID staffing levels and projected $1.8 billion in annual savings. Still, critics view the cuts as harmful to the country's public health infrastructure. His personal conduct also drew scrutiny after posting photos of himself swimming in Rock Creek, a site banned for public use due to unsafe water conditions.US health chief Kennedy faces lawmakers' questions on mass firings, measles | ReutersA growing number of major U.S. companies are proposing to leave Delaware as their state of incorporation—a trend being called “Dexit”—following Elon Musk's public fallout with Delaware courts. At least nine publicly traded companies, each valued over $1 billion, are preparing shareholder votes to move their legal homes, while five, including Tesla and Trump Media, have already relocated to states like Texas, Florida, and Nevada. The exodus is driven by concerns over Delaware's increasingly strict scrutiny of deals involving controlling shareholders, highlighted by a 2024 court ruling voiding Musk's $56 billion Tesla pay package.Companies say Delaware's legal environment has become unpredictable, especially for founder-led or insider-controlled firms. By contrast, states like Nevada and Texas offer looser standards and greater protection from shareholder litigation. For example, Nevada's laws shield corporate boards under the business judgment rule unless there is fraud, while Delaware courts still require fairness and transparency in insider transactions.In response, Delaware recently passed laws to limit judicial review of certain deals and curb shareholders' access to corporate records, hoping to stem the corporate departures. Still, critics like legal scholars and corporate counsel argue that Delaware's courts are now perceived as activist and uncertain, prompting companies to seek jurisdictions they believe offer more legal stability and control.In Tesla's wake, more big companies propose voting “Dexit" to depart Delaware | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

In the early 1900s, a new generation of crusading writers and journalists captured the nation's attention by digging up dirt on big business and government and advocating for change. They became known as “muckrakers.” Ida Tarbell exposed the ruthless machinations of John D. Rockefeller, the tycoon who built Standard Oil. Lincoln Steffens exposed bribery in city governments across America. And Upton Sinclair chronicled the horrific conditions in Chicago's meat packing plants and slaughterhouses. But in galvanizing public support for progressive reform, they also clashed with President Theodore Roosevelt, who was fighting his own battles with conservatives in Congress.Be the first to know about Wondery's newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterListen to American History Tellers on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Experience all episodes ad-free and be the first to binge the newest season. Unlock exclusive early access by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial today by visiting wondery.com/links/american-history-tellers/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As if the Federal Reserve and Internal Revenue Service weren't bad enough, 1913 also brought the Rockefeller Foundation into the world to deflect criticism from the recent break up of Standard Oil, to spread propaganda about how magnanamous the Rockefeller family is, act as a tax shelter, and push for eugenics in Third World countries through the rebranding of “family planning”. The Rockefeller Foundation has financed simulations and studies on the manipulation of population dynamics, propaganda, global pandemics, and authoritarian control through lockdowns set to take place by 2025. No surprise that they were very active in the promotion of the COVID vaccines, as well as the concept of Vaccine Passports. The were the group responsible for “Lockstep” in 2010, so they know the direction of global events in advance, and have for over a century. The Octopus of Global Control Audiobook: https://amzn.to/3xu0rMm Hypocrazy Audiobook: https://amzn.to/4aogwms Website: www.Macroaggressions.io Activist Post: www.activistpost.com Sponsors: Chemical Free Body: https://www.chemicalfreebody.com Promo Code: MACRO C60 Purple Power: https://c60purplepower.com/ Promo Code: MACRO Wise Wolf Gold & Silver: www.Macroaggressions.gold LegalShield: www.DontGetPushedAround.com EMP Shield: www.EMPShield.com Promo Code: MACRO ECI Development: https://info.ecidevelopment.com/-get-to-know-us/macro-aggressions Christian Yordanov's Health Transformation Program: www.LiveLongerFormula.com Privacy Academy: https://privacyacademy.com/step/privacy-action-plan-checkout-2/?ref=5620 Brain Supreme: www.BrainSupreme.co Promo Code: MACRO Above Phone: abovephone.com/macro Promo Code: MACRO Van Man: https://vanman.shop/?ref=MACRO Promo Code: MACRO My Patriot Supply: www.PrepareWithMacroaggressions.com Activist Post: www.ActivistPost.com Natural Blaze: www.NaturalBlaze.com Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/macroaggressionspodcast

En el Radar Empresarial de hoy analizamos los posibles rumores que apuntan a una posible adquisición de BP por parte de Shell. Según informaciones de Bloomberg, en las últimas semanas la compañía ha estado estudiando la viabilidad de la operación. Según el medio económico, estas deliberaciones se encuentran en una etapa temprana y que cualquier decisión de cara al futuro podría depender de si las acciones de British Petroleum continúan cayendo. La compañía podría esperar a que surja otro candidato. Shell fue protagonista la semana pasada por la presentación de resultados del primer trimestre que mejoraron las previsiones de los analistas. La compañía británica-holandesa presentó una caída en los beneficios del 28%. Aún así, estos superaron las previsiones del mercado. El consenso de analistas esperaba unas ganancias netas ajustadas que apenas superaran los 5.000 millones. Shell consiguió 500 millones de dólares más. Esto hizo que las acciones de la empresa subieran más de un 2% en la Bolsa de Londres. Aunque exista esta disminución de beneficios y los ingresos caigan un 6% en comparación con el mismo periodo del año anterior, la compañía mejora respecto al primer trimestre. La petrolera anuncia un flujo de caja operativo de más 8.000 millones de dólares. Shell anuncia también un dividendo de 33 céntimos. La compañía sigue firme con su plan de recompra de acciones, que tendrá un valor de 3.500 millones de dólares. Este se extenderá durante los siguientes tres meses y supone el décimo cuarto trimestre consecutivo que se produce un plan de recompra de acciones con un valor de al menos 3.000 millones de dólares. En la compañía ya es bastante habitual este tipo de estrategia, ya que los economistas opinan que las empresas que hacen este tipo de plan buscan optimizar su estructura de capital y mejorar los retornos para los accionistas. Shell se fundó en 1907 con el nombre de Royal Dutch Shell. Esta compañía derivó de la fusión de la Real Compañía Neerlandesa de Petróleos y Shell Transport and Trading Company. Esta fusión tenía como objetivo competir con el gigante estadounidense Standard Oil. Las primeras operaciones de la compañía saliente de este acuerdo se hicieron en Venezuela, en 1912, a través de su subsidiaria Caribbean Petroleum Company.

A few weeks ago, we told you that Acquired is doing something in New York City on July 15 with our good friends at J.P. Morgan Payments. Well, the big announcement is finally here: We are doing our 2025 Live Show…  at Radio City Music Hall!Radio City is of course the iconic New York City theater that hosts the Rockettes and the Tony Awards, and has hosted the Grammys, the MTV VMAs, and the NFL Draft. And it's also a storied part of Rockefeller Center, as chronicled on our Standard Oil episodes. We can't think of anything more "Acquired".If you want to be part of the ticket pre-sale, you can sign up at acquired.fm/nyc. While Radio City is the world's largest indoor theater (with room for 6,000 Acquired fans), more than 6,000 folks came to last year's Chase Center show! So get cracking on figuring out which friends and co-workers you want to go with (seats are assigned), and get your hotel + plane tickets booked! Tickets will be available in $100 and $200 tiers.This is — without a doubt — the biggest undertaking we've ever done here at Acquired. In true Broadway fashion, we're keeping the show details under wraps… but trust us, it'll be an evening of surprise and delight. If your idea of fun is the world's greatest business and technology nerds gathering together for a night on the big stage, this is for you. Oh, and a huge thank you to all our friends at J.P. Morgan for making this possible.We can't wait to see you there!Sign up for ticket pre-sale: https://acquired.fm/nyc

It's 2025 in America, but news reports of antitrust lawsuits which, if successful, could potentially lead to at least a partial breakup of some of the biggest tech companies in the world, hearken back to the early 1900s when Standard Oil was fundamentally restructured and the Federal Trade Commission was created. Names like Meta, Google, […]

It's 2025 in America, but news reports of antitrust lawsuits which, if successful, could potentially lead to at least a partial breakup of some of the biggest tech companies in the world, hearken back to the early 1900s when Standard Oil was fundamentally restructured and the Federal Trade Commission was created. Names like Meta, Google, Amazon, and Apple – they're all being examined for potential anticompetitive behavior, with Meta's Mark Zuckerberg recently taking the stand and Google entering a remedy phase to ameliorate what a Court decided was behavior violating antitrust law. The political giving associated with these companies suggests that the outcomes of these suits could affect not just individual platform users but also possibly the broader American political landscape. Joining the podcast today to discuss these developments is Daniel Cochrane, Senior Research Associate in the Center for Technology and the Human Person at The Heritage Foundation.Mark Zuckerberg Wants Us to Forgive, Forget Facebook's Sins

The United States government created the Sherman Anti-Trust Act in 1890 because the country was facing serious problems due to the centralization of power into the hands of oligarchs in the oil, steel, and railroad industries. Standard Oil had 91% of the market share in the oil refining industry when it was broken up in 1911, but the remnants remain in the form of Exxon Mobile, Chevron, Amaco, Conoco, Marathon, and Atlantic Richfield. U.S. Steel almost felt the wrath of the Department of Justice, but market forces intervened, and Microsoft could have been broken up in 2001 had it not been for a legal act of God. What current company is heading in that direction towards total market domination, and what could a captured American government even do to stop it from happening? Probably depends on who got campaign donations and who did not. The Octopus of Global Control Audiobook: https://amzn.to/3xu0rMm Hypocrazy Audiobook: https://amzn.to/4aogwms Website: www.Macroaggressions.io Activist Post: www.activistpost.com Sponsors: Chemical Free Body: https://www.chemicalfreebody.com Promo Code: MACRO C60 Purple Power: https://c60purplepower.com/ Promo Code: MACRO Wise Wolf Gold & Silver: www.Macroaggressions.gold LegalShield: www.DontGetPushedAround.com EMP Shield: www.EMPShield.com Promo Code: MACRO ECI Development: https://info.ecidevelopment.com/-get-to-know-us/macro-aggressions Christian Yordanov's Health Transformation Program: www.LiveLongerFormula.com Privacy Academy: https://privacyacademy.com/step/privacy-action-plan-checkout-2/?ref=5620 Brain Supreme: www.BrainSupreme.co Promo Code: MACRO Above Phone: abovephone.com/macro Promo Code: MACRO Van Man: https://vanman.shop/?ref=MACRO Promo Code: MACRO Activist Post: www.ActivistPost.com Natural Blaze: www.NaturalBlaze.com Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/macroaggressionspodcast

On today's episode of AD Nauseam, the discussion focuses on third-party liability, particularly ad agency liability. Amy and Daniel are joined by Sarah La Voi, and explain that ad agencies can be held liable for deceptive ads if they actively participate in creating the ad and should have known it was deceptive. They reference the FTC's Standard Oil case and other historical cases to illustrate how ad agencies have been held accountable. The conversation also touches on affiliate marketing, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and ensuring compliance among affiliates to avoid liability. Key takeaways include understanding the legal standards, asking the right questions, and maintaining thorough documentation.Questions & Comments: amudge@bakerlaw.com, dkaufman@bakerlaw.com and slavoi@bakerlaw.com

In this episode, we meet Margaret Strong, granddaughter of Standard Oil founder John D. Rockefeller. Dominick Dunne covered her life and times in detail as well as the courtroom battle over her estate in 1987. Margaret is not the only character coming into this epic tale. This Rockefeller heiress had a penchant for effete men – both marrying and supporting them in their dance endeavors too.  All sources can be found at doneanddunne.com. Continue your investigation with ad-free and bonus episodes on Patreon! To advertise on Done & Dunne, please reach out to info@amplitudemediapartners.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The American radio drama series "Let George Do It" aired from 1946 to 1954. It was the brainchild of Owen and Pauline Vinson. Bob Bailey was the star of the show, playing the role of George Valentine, a private investigator. In 1954, Olan Soule took over the voice role. David Victor and Jackson Gillis wrote the scripts, and Don Clark directed them.Initially, the episodes were more like sitcoms, with a live studio audience and laughs, but they eventually transformed into suspenseful private eye stories. The program was sponsored by Standard Oil of California, now known as Chevron. It aired on the West Coast Don Lee network of the Mutual Broadcasting System from 1946 to 1954. In its final season, it was also broadcast in New York on Wednesdays at 9:30 p.m.Clients would reach out to George Valentine after reading his classified ad in the newspaper, which said something like, "Danger's my thing. If you can't handle the job, I'm your guy. George Valentine. Give me all the details!" The ad would change from episode to episode, but it always started with "Danger's my thing" and ended with "Give me all the details!"George Valentine was a professional detective, and his secretary was Claire Brooks, also known as Brooksie. Frances Robinson, Virginia Gregg, and Lillian Buyeff voiced Brooksie at different times. As Valentine went about his detective work, he'd sometimes run into Brooksie's little brother, Sonny, played by Eddie Firestone, or the elevator man, Caleb, voiced by Joseph Kearns. Police Lieutenant Riley, played by Wally Maher, was a frequent guest. In the early episodes, Sonny was George's assistant, but later became a less regular character.The show's announcer was John Hiestand. The background music was initially provided by Eddie Dunstedter and his full orchestra, but as television took over as the main source of home entertainment, radio budgets got tighter, and Dunstedter's orchestra was replaced by an organ, which he also played.

In this episode of The afikra Podcast, host Mikey Muhanna speaks with Professor Adam Hanieh, author of "Crude Capitalism: Oil, Corporate Power, and the Making of the World Market," to discuss the transformative role of oil in shaping global economics and politics. The conversation delves into the historical context of oil production, including the rise of Standard Oil and the dominance of the Seven Sisters, the emergence of the term "petrodollars," OPEC's influence, and the strategic movements of oil in the global market. The discussion also addresses the implications of oil on geopolitical relations, particularly in the Middle East, the US, and the emerging role of China. Prof Hanieh examines the flawed solutions proposed to address the climate crisis and the ongoing pervasiveness of fossil fuel reliance.00:00 Introduction01:05 Understanding Petrodollars02:52 The Genesis of "Crude Capitalism"05:30 Historical Context: Oil as a Commodity08:22 Oil and War: a Strategic Resource16:58 The Rise of the Seven Sisters23:51 US Hegemony and Petrodollars29:44 The Formation and Role of OPEC37:33 Oil and Financial Markets48:13 China's Role in the Global Oil Market56:39 The Stakes of Energy Politics01:00:44 Final ThoughtsAdam Hanieh is a professor of Political Economy and Global Development at the University of Exeter's Institute for Arab and Islamic Studies and a Distinguished Research Fellow at Tsinghua University. A leading scholar of Middle Eastern political economy, his work examines Gulf capitalism, class dynamics, and state formation. He is the author of Money, Markets, and Monarchies (2018) and Crude Capitalism: Oil, Corporate Power, and the Making of the World Market (Verso Books, 2024). His research has been widely published, and he holds a Political Economy Fellowship with the Independent Social Research Foundation, while also serving on several editorial and advisory boards. Hosted by: Mikey Muhanna

The American radio drama series "Let George Do It" aired from 1946 to 1954. It was the brainchild of Owen and Pauline Vinson. Bob Bailey was the star of the show, playing the role of George Valentine, a private investigator. In 1954, Olan Soule took over the voice role. David Victor and Jackson Gillis wrote the scripts, and Don Clark directed them.Initially, the episodes were more like sitcoms, with a live studio audience and laughs, but they eventually transformed into suspenseful private eye stories. The program was sponsored by Standard Oil of California, now known as Chevron. It aired on the West Coast Don Lee network of the Mutual Broadcasting System from 1946 to 1954. In its final season, it was also broadcast in New York on Wednesdays at 9:30 p.m.Clients would reach out to George Valentine after reading his classified ad in the newspaper, which said something like, "Danger's my thing. If you can't handle the job, I'm your guy. George Valentine. Give me all the details!" The ad would change from episode to episode, but it always started with "Danger's my thing" and ended with "Give me all the details!"George Valentine was a professional detective, and his secretary was Claire Brooks, also known as Brooksie. Frances Robinson, Virginia Gregg, and Lillian Buyeff voiced Brooksie at different times. As Valentine went about his detective work, he'd sometimes run into Brooksie's little brother, Sonny, played by Eddie Firestone, or the elevator man, Caleb, voiced by Joseph Kearns. Police Lieutenant Riley, played by Wally Maher, was a frequent guest. In the early episodes, Sonny was George's assistant, but later became a less regular character.The show's announcer was John Hiestand. The background music was initially provided by Eddie Dunstedter and his full orchestra, but as television took over as the main source of home entertainment, radio budgets got tighter, and Dunstedter's orchestra was replaced by an organ, which he also played.

Episode 404: I will discuss The Standard Oil Gas Pumps with the Crowns and read off a menu from Diana's Opaa Greek Restaurant in Chicago!

Episode 404: I will discuss The Standard Oil Gas Pumps with the Crowns and read off a menu from Diana's Opaa Greek Restaurant in Chicago!

The American radio drama series "Let George Do It" aired from 1946 to 1954. It was the brainchild of Owen and Pauline Vinson. Bob Bailey was the star of the show, playing the role of George Valentine, a private investigator. In 1954, Olan Soule took over the voice role. David Victor and Jackson Gillis wrote the scripts, and Don Clark directed them. Initially, the episodes were more like sitcoms, with a live studio audience and laughs, but they eventually transformed into suspenseful private eye stories. The program was sponsored by Standard Oil of California, now known as Chevron. It aired on the West Coast Don Lee network of the Mutual Broadcasting System from 1946 to 1954. In its final season, it was also broadcast in New York on Wednesdays at 9:30 p.m. Clients would reach out to George Valentine after reading his classified ad in the newspaper, which said something like, "Danger's my thing. If you can't handle the job, I'm your guy. George Valentine. Give me all the details!" The ad would change from episode to episode, but it always started with "Danger's my thing" and ended with "Give me all the details!" George Valentine was a professional detective, and his secretary was Claire Brooks, also known as Brooksie. Frances Robinson, Virginia Gregg, and Lillian Buyeff voiced Brooksie at different times. As Valentine went about his detective work, he'd sometimes run into Brooksie's little brother, Sonny, played by Eddie Firestone, or the elevator man, Caleb, voiced by Joseph Kearns. Police Lieutenant Riley, played by Wally Maher, was a frequent guest. In the early episodes, Sonny was George's assistant, but later became a less regular character. The show's announcer was John Hiestand. The background music was initially provided by Eddie Dunstedter and his full orchestra, but as television took over as the main source of home entertainment, radio budgets got tighter, and Dunstedter's orchestra was replaced by an organ, which he also played.

The American radio drama series "Let George Do It" aired from 1946 to 1954. It was the brainchild of Owen and Pauline Vinson. Bob Bailey was the star of the show, playing the role of George Valentine, a private investigator. In 1954, Olan Soule took over the voice role. David Victor and Jackson Gillis wrote the scripts, and Don Clark directed them. Initially, the episodes were more like sitcoms, with a live studio audience and laughs, but they eventually transformed into suspenseful private eye stories. The program was sponsored by Standard Oil of California, now known as Chevron. It aired on the West Coast Don Lee network of the Mutual Broadcasting System from 1946 to 1954. In its final season, it was also broadcast in New York on Wednesdays at 9:30 p.m. Clients would reach out to George Valentine after reading his classified ad in the newspaper, which said something like, "Danger's my thing. If you can't handle the job, I'm your guy. George Valentine. Give me all the details!" The ad would change from episode to episode, but it always started with "Danger's my thing" and ended with "Give me all the details!" George Valentine was a professional detective, and his secretary was Claire Brooks, also known as Brooksie. Frances Robinson, Virginia Gregg, and Lillian Buyeff voiced Brooksie at different times. As Valentine went about his detective work, he'd sometimes run into Brooksie's little brother, Sonny, played by Eddie Firestone, or the elevator man, Caleb, voiced by Joseph Kearns. Police Lieutenant Riley, played by Wally Maher, was a frequent guest. In the early episodes, Sonny was George's assistant, but later became a less regular character. The show's announcer was John Hiestand. The background music was initially provided by Eddie Dunstedter and his full orchestra, but as television took over as the main source of home entertainment, radio budgets got tighter, and Dunstedter's orchestra was replaced by an organ, which he also played.

Esperanza and Irwin have a story to tell. As scandalous ancestors go, Col. Henry Huddleston Rogers II would have been enough for most families. But then he had a daughter. The colonel's namesake father, a partner in Standard Oil and noted “robber baron” of the Gilded Age, was one of the wealthiest men of his day. Amassing an estimated $100 million fortune, Rogers senior also acquired the nickname“Hell Hound” for his rapacious ways. It was meant as a compliment. Alas, young Harry was spoiled by his father's money. As he aged into adulthood, after receiving his inheritance in 1910, various sources describe him as ruthless, or a bully, or a ruthless bully.In 1914 he used some of the money to build Black Point, the family's summer estate inSouthampton, also known as the “Beach House,” adding a hunting lodge in nearby North Sea in the 1920s. The colonel commissioned John Russell Pope*, the architect responsible for the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., to design his shooting box overlooking Scallop Pond. The Sag Harbor Express reported that, at the time, it “encompassed 2,000 acres on both sides of the pond and was the largest privately-owned estate on Long Island.” By all accounts, the Port of Missing Men (as it was dubbed) offered the proverbial good time that was had by all. One rumor is that he had duck blinds installed on the water that were wired directly to Wall Street. The colonel's guests were able to remain unreachable to their wives but connected to the trading floor. Meanwhile, during Prohibition, there was a major liquor drop-off point conveniently close by, at the end of North Sea Road. Later, the drop-off point would become a notorious cathouse. The colonel and his wife, the former Mary Benjamin, had a daughter in 1902: Mary Millicent Abigail Rogers. The artistically inclined Millicent would go on to run through three husbands,plus Clark Gable. In 2011, her rich life became the subject of a biography, Searching for Beauty: The Life of Millicent Rogers, the American Heiress Who Taught the World About Style, by Cherie Burns. Listening is believing!

This Day in Legal History: Standard Oil RisingOn January 10, 1870, John D. Rockefeller and his partners incorporated the Standard Oil Company, marking a pivotal moment in American industrial and legal history. Standard Oil quickly became a dominant force in the oil industry, employing innovative practices such as vertical integration and aggressive pricing to outcompete rivals. By the late 19th century, the company controlled nearly 90% of the U.S. oil refining market, making Rockefeller the nation's first billionaire and one of the wealthiest individuals in history.However, Standard Oil's dominance also sparked concerns about monopolistic practices and the concentration of economic power. In 1911, following years of legal challenges, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Standard Oil Co. of New Jersey v. United States that the company violated the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890. The Court applied the "rule of reason," determining that the company's practices unreasonably restrained trade and harmed competition. As a result, Standard Oil was ordered to dissolve into 34 separate entities, including Exxon, Mobil, and Chevron, many of which remain influential today.This landmark decision underscored the federal government's authority to regulate monopolies and enforce antitrust laws, shaping the legal landscape for corporate regulation in the 20th century. The case also highlighted tensions between industrial innovation and market fairness, a debate that continues to resonate in discussions of antitrust law and corporate power.The U.S. Supreme Court, in a 5-4 decision, cleared the way for Donald Trump's sentencing in his New York hush money case, rejecting his request to delay proceedings. Trump, now president-elect, argued for immunity from prosecution, claiming the sentencing would distract from his presidential transition and harm his global standing. However, the court stated his claims could be addressed later on appeal and noted the sentencing's impact would be minimal, as no prison time would be imposed.The majority included Chief Justice John Roberts, Justice Amy Coney Barrett, and the court's three liberal justices. Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh dissented–which means there is a one-vote majority in the Supreme Court on the issue of Trump not being entirely above the law. Trump emphasized that the decision leaves room for appeals on broader immunity issues. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who prosecuted the case, supported moving forward with sentencing due to its public interest.Justice Juan Merchan ruled that a president-elect doesn't qualify for the same immunity as a sitting president but opted for an "unconditional discharge," sparing Trump any real penalties beyond the conviction. Trump remains focused on overturning the verdict, asserting the trial was flawed under new presidential immunity standards set by a prior Supreme Court ruling. The case could ultimately return to the Supreme Court for a final decision.Supreme Court Allows Trump Sentencing in NY Hush Money Case (2)Trump to be sentenced in hush money case, days before his inauguration | ReutersThe U.S. House of Representatives voted 243-140 to pass the "Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act," sanctioning the International Criminal Court (ICC) in response to its arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The act targets individuals involved in prosecuting U.S. citizens or allies, including Israel, who are not ICC members. It marks strong Republican support for Israel following their takeover of Congress. The sanctions echo Trump-era measures against the ICC, previously imposed over investigations into U.S. actions in Afghanistan and later lifted under the Biden administration. These new sanctions extend to those aiding ICC operations and could, according to ICC President Judge Tomoko Akane, threaten the court's functionality and existence. The ICC defends its actions, citing sufficient evidence and the need to prevent ongoing crimes in Gaza.Forty-five Democrats joined Republicans in backing the bill, while no Republicans opposed it. The Senate, now Republican-controlled, is expected to prioritize the measure, allowing President-elect Trump to sign it shortly after his inauguration. The ICC has yet to comment on the vote. The legislation comes amid heightened criticism of the ICC's pursuit of war crime charges against Israeli leaders, accusations Israel denies.US House votes to sanction International Criminal Court over Israel | ReutersRudy Giuliani, former lawyer for President-elect Donald Trump, faces a second contempt hearing in Washington on Friday over claims he violated a court agreement in a defamation case brought by Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Wandrea “Shaye” Moss. The case stems from Giuliani's false allegations that the workers helped rig the 2020 presidential election. The workers accuse Giuliani of breaching an agreement barring him from making further defamatory statements, citing comments on his podcast suggesting ballot tampering.  Earlier this week, Giuliani was held in civil contempt by a federal judge in New York for failing to comply with information requests related to the $148 million judgment Freeman and Moss won against him in 2023. Giuliani is appealing that decision. If found in contempt again, U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell could impose civil fines or jail time.This adds to Giuliani's growing legal troubles, including disbarment for spreading false election claims and criminal charges in Georgia and Arizona. Giuliani's lawyers argue his podcast remarks did not specifically reference Freeman and Moss and were part of his legal defense on appeal. However, the May 2024 agreement prohibits any public comments implying wrongdoing by the election workers.Giuliani faces second contempt bid over false claims about 2020 election workers | ReutersThis week's closing theme is by Benjamin Godard.Benjamin Godard (1849–1895) was a French composer and violinist whose lyrical and melodic style earned him a place among the late Romantic composers of his time. Despite achieving considerable acclaim during his life, Godard's works have since faded into relative obscurity, overshadowed by contemporaries like Saint-Saëns and Fauré. His compositions, however, reflect a deeply expressive and refined musicality, blending the elegance of French Romanticism with a penchant for memorable themes.One of Godard's notable chamber works is his String Quartet No. 3, Op. 136, a piece that exemplifies his gift for balancing structural clarity with emotional depth. The third movement, "Minuetto molto moderato", is particularly striking. It reinterprets the classical minuet form with a delicately poised, almost dreamlike quality, showcasing Godard's skill in creating nuanced and intimate musical textures. The lilting rhythm and restrained tempo evoke a sense of grace, while the interplay between the strings lends the movement a sophisticated charm.This movement serves as a perfect closing theme for the week, offering a reflective and elegant departure from the bustling rhythms of daily life. The gentle, flowing melodies allow listeners to unwind while appreciating the timeless beauty of chamber music. Godard's Minuetto invites contemplation, serving as both a tribute to his artistic legacy and a serene conclusion to the week.Without further ado, Benjamin Godard's String Quartet No. 3, Op. 136. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

John D. Rockefeller gründet am 10.1.1870 Standard Oil. Damit wird er zum ersten Milliardär der Wirtschaftsgeschichte. Sein Reichtum ist bis heute sprichwörtlich. Von Kay Bandermann.

Before he became the world's first billionaire and the mastermind behind Standard Oil, John D. Rockefeller was just a boy from a modest family in upstate New York. In this episode, we explore the formative years that shaped one of the most influential and controversial figures in American history. From his upbringing with a con-artist father and a devout, hardworking mother to his early fascination with business and frugality, we trace the origins of Rockefeller's relentless drive. How did the son of a traveling snake oil salesman grow into the man who would dominate the oil industry and leave a lasting mark on the world? Join us as we uncover the story of John D. Rockefeller's early life, where the seeds of ambition and power were first sown. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/americandynastiespod/support

This Day in Legal History: Teddy Roosevelt, Trust BusterOn December 3, 1901, President Theodore Roosevelt delivered his first State of the Union address, where he boldly called for the dissolution of powerful business trusts. These trusts, large corporate conglomerates dominating key sectors like railroads, oil, and steel, were widely criticized for stifling competition and exploiting workers. Roosevelt argued that unchecked corporate power threatened the economic and political freedoms of ordinary Americans. This speech marked the beginning of Roosevelt's aggressive antitrust campaign, which sought to enforce the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890—a law that had been largely dormant due to weak enforcement. During his presidency, Roosevelt initiated lawsuits against 44 trusts, targeting entities like the Northern Securities Company, a massive railroad monopoly, and Standard Oil. His administration's victory in the 1904 Northern Securities case was a landmark decision, affirming the federal government's authority to regulate monopolies. Roosevelt's efforts earned him the nickname "Trust Buster," though he preferred to describe his approach as ensuring a "square deal" for all, rather than dismantling every large corporation indiscriminately. The 1901 address and the actions that followed redefined the federal government's role in economic regulation, setting a precedent for progressive reforms. Roosevelt's trust-busting legacy laid the groundwork for future antitrust policies and established the President as a central figure in addressing economic inequality and corporate overreach.Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell sharply criticized two federal judges for reversing their retirement plans, a move he claims prevents Donald Trump from filling their vacancies when he returns to the White House. Referring to the judges as "partisan Democrat district judges," McConnell accused them of undermining the electoral mandate by remaining active after the November election results. Though he didn't name them, McConnell's comments were aimed at U.S. District Judges Algenon Marbley and Max Cogburn, appointees of Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, respectively, who had previously indicated they would take senior status—a semi-retirement—pending Senate confirmation of successors. McConnell labeled the judges' decisions as partisan interference, urging the incoming administration to consider recusal options for them. He also claimed their actions reflect a “political finger on the scale,” though no historical precedent or formal violation underpins his accusations. Notably, judicial replacements for both seats faced delays during Biden's administration due to Senate procedural traditions and partisan gridlock, complicating the nomination process.McConnell's critique appears selective, given his own record of partisanship in judicial confirmations. Senate Judiciary Chair Dick Durbin countered by highlighting McConnell's refusal to advance Merrick Garland's Supreme Court nomination during Obama's presidency—a move widely criticized as unprecedented gamesmanship. McConnell also criticized appellate judges who announced retirements contingent on successor confirmations, calling potential reversals "unprecedented," despite the lack of ethical violations or rule breaches. Critics argue McConnell's remarks exemplify a strategic focus on judiciary control rather than a genuine concern for ethics or impartiality.McConnell Blasts Judges Who Reversed Retirement Post-Trump WinElon Musk's $56 billion Tesla compensation package was invalidated by Delaware Chancery Court Judge Kathaleen McCormick, marking a significant legal setback for the billionaire. The judge ruled that Tesla's board had been improperly influenced by Musk when it approved the plan in 2018, describing the arrangement as excessive and criticizing the board for capitulating to Musk's demands. This decision upheld her earlier January ruling, rejecting arguments from Musk and Tesla shareholders who had voted to revive the package.The ruling not only voids the record-setting payout but also requires Tesla's board to propose a new compensation plan, though the company has announced plans to appeal. Musk, the world's richest person, reacted by labeling the decision “absolute corruption” on his social media platform, X. The court also awarded $345 million in attorney fees to the shareholder lawyers who challenged the package, marking one of the largest legal payouts in U.S. shareholder litigation.The compensation case stemmed from a lawsuit alleging that Tesla's board failed to act independently and allowed Musk to orchestrate the details of his pay package. McCormick dismissed arguments that shareholder approval could override her judicial findings, emphasizing the limits of post-trial actions in reversing decisions. Tesla shares fell after the ruling, and the decision could prompt further scrutiny of corporate governance at the company.Musk's Multibillion-Dollar Tesla Payout Gutted by Delaware JudgeDelaware judge rejects Musk's $56 billion Tesla pay - again | ReutersCalifornia Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed a $25 million legal fund to prepare for potential conflicts with President-elect Donald Trump's administration. Announced during a special legislative session, the fund aims to bolster the state's ability to challenge federal policies on issues like reproductive rights, immigration, and environmental protection. Newsom emphasized that the initiative seeks to protect critical state resources, such as disaster relief and health care, while safeguarding civil rights and reproductive health care access.The funding would enable the California Department of Justice and other state agencies to swiftly respond to federal actions, with Attorney General Rob Bonta planning to expand staffing for legal battles. California has a history of such litigation, having spent $42 million during Trump's first term and filing over 120 lawsuits against his administration. Newsom cited past successes in securing funding and reversing federal actions as evidence of the strategy's effectiveness.The proposal also aligns with new legislative measures to protect abortion rights, including access to medication and enforcement of the state's Reproductive Privacy Act. Newsom's office expects the budget measure to pass before Trump's inauguration on January 20, ensuring California's readiness to counter any federal policies that could impact the state's economy or public services.California governor proposes $25 million war chest for legal fights with Trump | ReutersMy column for Bloomberg this week tackles the looming funding crisis facing Social Security, one of America's most vital anti-poverty programs. Without intervention, the program will face a shortfall by 2035, jeopardizing benefits millions of Americans rely on. To avert this crisis, I propose two practical and politically feasible solutions: raising the cap on taxable income and expanding Social Security taxes to include investment income.Currently, income above $168,600 is exempt from Social Security taxes, creating a regressive structure where high earners contribute a smaller share of their total income. Eliminating or significantly increasing this cap would not only generate substantial revenue but also ensure a fairer tax burden. Public opinion overwhelmingly supports this approach, favoring tax adjustments over benefit cuts or increasing the retirement age.Beyond raising the cap, policymakers should modernize the tax base by including investment income such as capital gains, dividends, and interest. In 2024, Americans earned $3.7 trillion in investment income, much of it untaxed for Social Security purposes. Even modest taxation on this income, especially above high thresholds like $400,000, could secure the program's solvency while reflecting the realities of modern wealth generation.Opponents might argue that taxing investments could harm economic growth, but careful, incremental adjustments would likely have minimal impact on investor behavior. Acting now allows for gradual changes and avoids drastic measures later, ensuring Social Security continues to deliver on its promise of financial security for all contributors.Social Security Faces a Crisis, but Sound Tax Policy Can Help This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

JONATHAN KANTER This episode was recorded on November 18, 2024,  the day when it was reported that Senior antitrust officials at the Justice Department plan to ask a judge to order Google to divest its Chrome web browser, Bloomberg reported citing anonymous sources. The department also intends to ask federal judge Amit Mehta, who declared Google's search engine a monopoly in August, to mandate actions concerning artificial intelligence and the Android mobile operating system. The enforcement actions are the product of the Justice Department's multiyear case against Google which sought to prove that the tech giant has a web search monopoly in the U.S. The Justice Department won its case  federal judge Amit Mehta ruled that Google broke antitrust laws in both online search and search text ads markets. The remedies are yet to be decided and will likely be fought in federal courts. Many parallels exist between this case and  US v Standard Oil in the early 20th century and US v Microsoft in the early 21st century. The remarkable person leading this effort which at its root goes to the heart of free markets, power and competition is Assistant Attorney General of the United States' Department of Justice Antitrust Division. He is deeply thoughtful and his mind is expansive, especially at the intersection of the law, free markets. Prior to this, Kanter worked as an antitrust attorney at the FTC and in private practice. AAG Kanter is considered a critic of “big tech” and DOJ has worked to block  a record number of mergers on antitrust  grounds. During his tenure, the DOJ won its first conviction in a criminal monopolization suit in four decades Jonathan has a very humble beginning in a working class neighborhood of Queens and  graduated from SUNY Albany and Washington University School of Law.  After graduating from law school, Kanter first worked as an antitrust lawyer at the FTC. He later worked in private practice, where he represented clients including Microsoft and Yelp as an  associate at Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson. Kanter was later a partner at Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft followed by  Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison.  Two other notable cases he has led include an antitrust suit related to JetBlue's attempted acquisition of Spirit, and one against Ticketmaster's parent company Live Nation Entertainment. Upon filing the lawsuit, Kanter stated that "Live music should not be available only to those who can afford to pay the Ticketmaster tax". Much of his work, as was his confirmation by the United States Senate, has broad support across party lines, a rare thing in today's Washington.  RELATED LINKS NYT Article CNBC Segment Wikipedia Bloomberg Article Stanford Graduate School of Business Talk GENERAL INFO| TOP OF THE GAME: Official website: https://topofthegame-thepod.com/ RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/topofthegame-thepod/feed.xml Hosting service show website: https://topofthegame-thepod.podbean.com/ Javier's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/javiersaade  SUPPORT & CONNECT: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/96934564 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551086203755 Twitter: https://twitter.com/TOPOFGAMEpod Subscribe on Podbean: https://www.podbean.com/site/podcatcher/index/blog/vLKLE1SKjf6G Email us: info@topofthegame-thepod.com   THANK YOU FOR LISTENING – AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PLATFORMS

The OTRNow Radio Program- Thanksgiving SpecialTarzan. November 29, 1951. Mutual-Don Lee net origination, Commodore syndication. "African Thanksgiving". Commercials added locally. A beautiful French girl starts a battle of wills between Sheik Hazara and Tarzan. CBS rebroadcast date: November 22, 1952. Lamont Johnson, Walter White Jr. (producer), Bud Lesser (writer), Albert Glaser (original music)  The Lucky Strike Program Starring Jack Benny. November 30, 1947. NBC net. Lucky Strike. Phil Harris and The Sportsmen do a clever singing commercial to the tune of, "That's What I Like About The South." Jack dreams that he's being tried for murder for killing a Thanksgiving turkey. Fred Allen (imitated by Ollie O'Toole) appears as a turkey during the trial! A great show!. Artie Auerbach, Basil Ruysdael (commercial spokesman), Dennis Day, Don Wilson, Frank Nelson, Jack Benny, L. A. Speed Riggs (tobacco auctioneer), Mary Livingstone, Mel Blanc (quadruples, one part is a turkey), Phil Harris, Eddie Anderson, The Sportsmen, F. E. Boone (tobacco auctioneer), Bea Benaderet, John Laing (commercial spokesman), Ollie O'Toole, George Balzer (writer), John Tackaberry (writer), Milt Josefsberg (writer), Sam Perrin (writer), Mahlon Merrick (conductor). Doctor Christian. November 22, 1939. CBS net. "Prelude To Thanksgiving". Vaseline. Jean Hersholt, Art Gilmore (announcer), Rosemary De Camp.Speech Winston Churchill 1944-11-23 American Thanksgiving Vic and Sade. November 20, 1941. Red net. Crisco. Nicer Scott has been telling everyone that Rush Gook eats with a baby's knife and fork. Rush is humiliated and angry. Stuff happens! The organ themes, bridges and system cue have been deleted. Paul Rhymer (writer), Art Van Harvey, Bernardine Flynn, Billy Idelson, Ed Herlihy (announcer).Let George Do It. November 20, 1950. Mutual-Don Lee net. "Cause For Thanksgiving". Standard Oil. A Thanksgiving story about a tough ten-year-old boy who refuses to talk. Is it psychic shock?. Bob Bailey, Virginia Gregg, Jackson Gillis (writer), David Victor (writer), Eddie Dunstedter (composer, presenter), Don Clark (director), Bud Hiestand (announcer), Wally Maher, Carl Watson (commercial spokesman), Bob Burchill (commercial spokesman), Alan Reed, Dick Ryan, Tony Barrett, Jeffrey Silver, Steven Chase.Suspense. November 25, 1948. CBS net. "The Screaming Woman". Auto-Lite. A little girl hears a screaming woman who is buried alive. The script was subsequently used on "Suspense" on March 1, 1955 (see cat. #7264). Margaret O'Brien, Ray Bradbury (author), Sylvia Richards (adaptor), Ted de Corsia, John McIntire, Lurene Tuttle, Agnes Moorehead, Anton M. Leader (producer, director), Harlow Wilcox (commercial spokesman), William Johnstone (commercial spokesman), Lucien Moraweck (composer), Lud Gluskin (conductor), Paul Frees (announcer).

Subscribe Apple | Google | Spotify | Stitcher | iHeart Support The Daily Gardener Buy Me A Coffee  Connect for FREE! The Friday Newsletter |  Daily Gardener Community Botanical History On This Day 1801 On this day, America lost one of its pioneering botanists, Humphry Marshall, the "Father of American Dendrology." 1869 Ellen Shipman, a woman who found her voice in the whispers of flowers and her strength in the structure of garden walls, is born. Grow That Garden Library™ Read The Daily Gardener review of Garden Favorites by Warren Schultz, Rebecca Atwater and Rick Darke Buy the book on Amazon: Garden Favorites by Warren Schultz, Rebecca Atwater and Rick Darke Today's Botanic Spark 1857 Ida Tarbell is born - a woman who would become known for exposing Standard Oil's monopolistic practices but who found her greatest peace tending to her beloved Connecticut farm. Thanks for listening to The Daily Gardener And remember: For a happy, healthy life, garden every day.

Alex Tsakiris is the founder and host of the popular podcast Skeptiko, which has garnered millions of downloads over the years as it explores the intersection of science and spirituality. A published author, entrepreneur, and critical thinker, Alex has become a prominent voice in the debate surrounding the nature of consciousness and its connection to the physical world. In 1986, he founded MindPath Technologies, a pioneering company that developed AI expert systems for major corporations like Texas Instruments, DuPont, and Standard Oil, before it was acquired by Proxima Corporation in 1996.In this conversation, we discuss:Alex Tsakiris's journey from AI entrepreneur to host of the Skeptiko podcast, exploring the intersection of science and spirituality.The impact of AI on the concept of consciousness and how it challenges traditional scientific paradigms.The influence of Alan Turing's work on AI consciousness and how it shapes today's discussions on human-machine interactions.Why Alex questions AI dogma and how his background in expert systems influences his perspective.The role of transparency versus truth in AI development and how it shapes ethical considerations.Real-world AI applications that focus on enhancing human well-being and reducing workplace friction.ResourcesSubscribe to the AI & The Future of Work NewsletterConnect with AlexAI fun fact articleOn AI ethics and Data Science

We're continuning to dig into other would-be Julius Caesar presidents of American history. The men who never were nominated, and maybe never even ran, but who could have been either the great Man of the People who'd lead us to glory.... or terrible Imperators who tore us apart. I'll be posting a bunch of these throughout this week. Today, one of the original 'robber barons' and the progenitor of a famous political family: John D. Rockefeller, CEO of Standard Oil. 

What I learned from rereading Random Reminiscences of Men and Events by John D. Rockefeller. ----Ramp gives you everything you need to control spend, watch your costs, and optimize your financial operations —all on a single platform. Make history's greatest entrepreneurs proud by going to Ramp and learning how they can help your business control your costs and save more. ----Founders Notes gives you the superpower to learn from history's greatest entrepreneurs on demand. You can search all my notes and highlights from every book I've ever read for the podcast. Get access to Founders Notes here. ----Join my free email newsletter to get my top 10 highlights from every book----Follow Founders Podcast on YouTube (Video coming soon!) ----Notes and highlights from the episode: It has not been my custom to press my affairs forward into public gaze. (Bad boys move in silence)My favorite biography on Rockefeller John D: The Founding Father of the Rockefellers by David Freeman Hawke. (Founders #254)Secrecy covered all of his operations.Taking for granted the growth of his empire, he hired talented people as found, not as needed. — Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller by Ron Chernow. (Founders #248) We had been frank and aboveboard with each other. Without this, business associates cannot get the best out of their work.Rockefeller said Jay Gould was the best businessman he knew. Jay Gould books and episodes: American Rascal: How Jay Gould Built Wall Street's Biggest Fortune by Greg Steinmetz (Founders #285) and Dark Genius of Wall Street: The Misunderstood Life of Jay Gould, King of the Robber Barons by Edward J. Renehan Jr. (Founders #258) "If I have to choose between agreement and conflict, I'll take conflict every time. It always yields a better result." — Jeff BezosIt's a pity to get a man into a place in an argument where he is defending a position instead of considering the evidence. His calm judgment is apt to leave him, and his mind is for the time being closed, and only obstinacy remainsI like doing deals with the same people. You get to know each other and build a mutual sense of trust. Today, a lot of what I do originates from associations that go back ten, twenty, thirty, even forty years. — Am I Being Too Subtle?: Straight Talk From a Business Rebel by Sam Zell.Writing a check separates conviction from conversation. — Warren BuffettWe had with us a group of courageous men who recognized the great principle that a business cannot be a great success that does not fully and efficiently accept and take advantage of its opportunities. (Do everything and you will win)Such was Rockefeller's ingenuity, his ceaseless search for even minor improvements. Despite the unceasing vicissitudes of the oil industry, prone to cataclysmic booms and busts, he would never experience a single year of loss. — Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller by Ron Chernow. (Founders #248)Last Train to Paradise: Henry Flagler and the Spectacular Rise and Fall of the Railroad that Crossed an Ocean by Les Standiford. #247 Henry Flagler (Rockefeller's Partner)Rockefeller on the impact Henry Flagler had on the beginning of Standard Oil: He always believed that if we went into the oil business at all, we should do the work as well as we knew how; that we should have the very best facilities; that everything should be solid and substantial; and that nothing should be left undone to produce the finest results. And he followed his convictions of building as though the trade was going to last, and his courage in acting up to his beliefs laid strong foundations for later years. (Build a first class business in a first class way)Young people should realize how, above all other possessions, is the value of a friend in every department of life without any exception whatsoever.When you recruit A players you don't tell them here's 5 things I want you to focus on. Here's your top 10 priorities. NO. You've got one priority. Destroy that priority. Do it more than anybody else possibly will. (Henry Flagler's main priority was controlling the cost of transportation.)Larry Ellison: You don't want turnover on your core product team. Knowledge compounds. Don't interrupt the compounding. — Softwar: An Intimate Portrait of Larry Ellison and Oracle by Matthew Symonds. (Founders #124) We were accustomed to prepare for financial emergencies long before we needed the funds. (Keep a fortress of cash)It is impossible to comprehend Rockefeller's breathtaking ascent without realizing that he always moved into battle backed by abundant cash. Whether riding out downturns or coasting on booms, he kept plentiful reserves and won many bidding contests simply because his war chest was deeper. — Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller by Ron Chernow. (Founders #248)I learned to have great respect for figures and facts, no matter how small they were.This casual way of conducting affairs did not appeal to me.As our successes began to come, I seldom put my head upon the pillow at night without speaking a few words to myself: "Now a little success, soon you'll fall down, soon you'll be overthrown. Because you've got a start, you think you're quite a merchant; look out, or you will lose your head—go steady." These intimate conversations with myself had a great influence on my life. I was afraid I couldn't stand my prosperity, and tried to teach myself not to get puffed up with any foolish notions. (If you go to sleep on a win you'll wake up with a loss)I hope they were properly humiliated to see how far we had gone beyond their expectations. (Chips on shoulders put chips in pockets) 98 percent of our attention was devoted to the task at hand. We are believers in Carlyle's Prescription, that the job a man is to do is the job at hand and not see what lies dimly in the distance. — Charlie Munger in Buffett: The Making of an American Capitalist by Roger Lowenstein. (Founders #182) Rockefeller on Standard Oil stock: Sell everything you've got, even the shirt on your back, but hold on to the stock.All business proceeds on belief: Trying to run a company without a set of beliefs is like trying to steer a ship without a rudder. — Four Seasons: The Story of a Business Philosophy by Isadore Sharp (Founders #184)  Rockefeller on his “unintelligent competition”: We had the type of man who really never knew all the facts about his own affairs. Many kept their books in such a way that they did not actually know when they were making money or when they were losing money.A few weeks later, the newspapers announce his new partnership—revealing who had backed his bid—and the news that Rockefeller is, at twenty-five, an owner of one of the largest refineries in the world. On that day his partners “woke up and saw for the first time that my mind had not been idle while they were talking so big and loud,” he would say later. They were shocked. They'd seen their empire dismantled and taken from them by the young man they had dismissed. Rockefeller had wanted it more.  — Conspiracy by Ryan Holiday At best it was a speculative trade, and I wonder that we managed to pull through so often; but we were gradually learning how to conduct a most difficult business.A blueprint for success in any endeavor: Low prices to the customer. Root out any inefficiency. Pay for talent. Control expenses. Invest in technology.We devoted ourselves exclusively to the oil business and its products. The company never went into outside ventures, but kept to the enormous task of perfecting its own organizationThe fastest way to move a dial is narrow the focus. People naturally resist focus because they can't decide what is important. Therein lies a problem: people can typically tell you after some deliberation what their top three priorities are, but they struggle to decide on just one. What is too much and what is too little focus? Do you ever even discuss this? Most teams are not focused enough. I rarely encountered a team that employed too narrow an aperture. It goes against our human grain. People like to boil oceans. Just knowing that can be to your advantage. When you narrow focus, you are increasing the resourcing on the remaining priority. —  Amp It Up by Frank Slootman Two people can run the same business and have vastly different results: Perhaps it is worth while to emphasize again the fact that it is not merely capital and "plants" and the strictly material things which make up a business, but the character of the men behind these things, their personalities, and their abilities; these are the essentials to be reckoned with. When it comes to competition, being one of the best is not good enough. Do you really want to plan for a future in which you might have to fight with somebody who is just as good as you are? I wouldn't. — Jeff Bezos in Invent and Wander: The Collected Writings of Jeff BezosDon't even think of temporary or sharp advantages. Don't waste your effort on a thing which ends in a petty triumph unless you are satisfied with a life of petty success.Study diligently your capital requirements, and fortify yourself fully to cover possible set-backs, because you can absolutely count on meeting setbacks.Do not to lose your head over a little success, or grow impatient or discouraged by a little failure.Know your numbers. You need to know your business down to the ground.Money comes naturally as a result of service (Henry Ford)Don't do anything that someone else can do (Edwin Land)The man will be most successful who confers the greatest service on the world.Commercial enterprises that are needed by the public will pay. Commercial enterprises that are not needed fail, and ought to fail.Dedicate your life to building something that contributes to the progress and happiness of mankind.----“I have listened to every episode released and look forward to every episode that comes out. The only criticism I would have is that after each podcast I usually want to buy the book because I am interested so my poor wallet suffers. ” — GarethBe like Gareth. Buy a book: All the books featured on Founders Podcast

In this episode, we continue our deep dive into the life and legacy of Henry Flagler, focusing on his transformative role in shaping Florida's fresh produce industry. Following up on part one, which explored Flagler's rise from grain merchant to Standard Oil powerhouse, we now turn our attention to his ambitious projects in Florida.Join John and Patrick as they uncover the stories behind the founding of towns like Pompano Beach and Hastings, the rise of Florida's fresh produce industry, and Flagler's ambitious railway extension to Key West. From devastating freezes that shifted the state's citrus belt to Flagler's innovative farming ventures, this episode paints a vivid picture of how one man's vision helped shape modern Florida.Don't miss the fascinating history of Flagler's railroads and their lasting impact on Florida's agriculture.In Sponsorship with Cornell University: Dyson Cornell SC Johnson College of BusinessJoin the History of Fresh Produce Club (https://app.theproduceindustrypodcast.com/access/) for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com

Episode Synopsis:Was oil monopoly enough for the Rockefellers or did the reign of the this Illuminati Family move to take over medicine, education, and eventually the world at large?We talk about this and much more, including:Did John D. Rockefeller Sr. continue the criminal legacy of this father “Devil Bill”?How did the Rockefeller's, using the help of other bloodline families, illegally force America's dependence on oil?How did Standard Oil fund the creation of Saudi Arabia and create the petrodollar?How did the Rockefellers use The Prohibition of the 1920s to restrict ethanol as an alternative fuel source?Is crude oil as we know it actually a renewable resource known as abiotic oil?How much were GM, Firestone and Standard Oil, fined for their conspiratorial overhaul of public transportation?Were the gas shortages in the 70s orchestrated as part of an elaborate plot to back the American dollar with oil?Original Air DateSeptember 25th, 2024Show HostsJason Spears & Christopher DeanOur PatreonConsider joining our Patreon Squad and becoming a Tier Operator to help support the show and get access to exclusive content like:Links and ResourcesStudio NotesA monthly Zoom call with Jason and Christopher And More…Resource Books“Country School Of Tomorrow” – Fredrick T. Gates – PDF“Murder By Injection” – Eustace Mullins“Who financed Hitler” – James and Suzanne Pool“The Rockefellers: An American Dynasty”  – Peter Collier“Wealth Against Common Wealth” – Henry Demorest Lloyd “The Unholy Alliance” – Peter Levenda “Externalization of the Hierarchy” – Alice Bailey  (As an Amazon Associate, Operation Red Pill will earn from qualifying purchases made through the provided links)ORP ApparelMerch StoreConnect With UsLetsTalk@ORPpodcast.comFacebookInstagram

Episode Synopsis: Was oil monopoly enough for the Rockefellers or did the reign of the this Illuminati Family move to take over medicine, education, and eventually the world at large? We talk about this and much more, including: Did John D. Rockefeller Sr. continue the criminal legacy of this father “Devil Bill?" How did the Rockefeller's, using the help of other bloodline families, illegally force America's dependence on oil? How did Standard oil fund the creation of Saudi Arabia and create the Petrodollar? How did the Rockefellers use The Prohibition of the 1920s to restrict ethanol as an alternative fuel source? Is crude oil as we know it actually a renewable resource known as abiotic oil? How much were GM, Firestone and Standard Oil, fined for their conspiratorial overhaul of public transportation? Were the gas shortages in the 70s orchestrated as part of an elaborate plot to back the American dollar with oil? Original Air Date September 25th, 2024 Show Hosts Jason Spears & Christopher Dean Our Patreon Consider joining our Patreon Squad and becoming a Tier Operator to help support the show and get access to exclusive content like: Links and Resources Studio Notes A monthly Zoom call with Jason and Christopher  And More… Resource Books “Country School Of Tomorrow” – Fredrick T. Gates – PDF “Murder By Injection” – Eustace Mullins “Who financed Hitler” – James and Suzanne Pool “The Rockefellers: An American Dynasty”  – Peter Collier “Wealth Against Common Wealth” – Henry Demorest Lloyd  “The Unholy Alliance” – Peter Levenda  “Externalization of the Hierarchy” – Alice Bailey   (As an Amazon Associate, Operation Red Pill will earn from qualifying purchases made through the provided links) ORP Apparel Merch Store Connect With Us LetsTalk@ORPpodcast.com Facebook Instagram

“I did not form a very favorable first impression, I must admit. I came here from Jacksonville by way of the river and the Tocoi railway and got here just at night. The accommodation was very bad and most of the visitors here were consumptives. I didn't like it, and took the first train back to Jacksonville.”While Henry Flagler's initial impression of St. Augustine, Florida, was far from glowing, he would go on to be the driving force behind transforming the state into the agricultural and economic powerhouse it is today.In part one of this new series, John and Patrick dive into the remarkable story of Henry Flagler, the man whose vision and investments helped transform Florida into the state we know today. Discover Flagler's humble beginnings, his rise to prominence with Standard Oil, and his first encounters with Florida's untapped potential. As our hosts take you through Flagler's journey, they also explore the rich agricultural history of 19th-century Florida, including the booming citrus industry that laid the groundwork for his transformative work.In Sponsorship with Cornell University: Dyson Cornell SC Johnson College of BusinessJoin the History of Fresh Produce Club (https://app.theproduceindustrypodcast.com/access/) for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com

In this episode, Adam Heimlich, CEO and co-founder of Chalice Custom Algorithms, joins the AdTechGod Pod to discuss the Google antitrust trial and its impact on the adtech industry. He explains that the adtech industry has been dominated by Google, causing fear and mistrust among industry players. The trial will bring to light Google's dominance and potentially lead to a new era of competition and innovation. Adam breaks down the antitrust case, comparing it to the Standard Oil and Microsoft cases, and explains how Google's control over the tech stack and data prevents competition and stifles innovation. He predicts that Google will likely be broken up, but the extent of the breakup remains uncertain. Adam believes that breaking up Google will lead to more choices, openness, and innovation in the industry. He also emphasizes the importance of treating everyone in the industry as equals and fostering better relationships.For more information on the Google antitrust case please subscribe to monopoly.marketecture.tvThanks to Live Intent for sponsoring this episode.

This week, host Troy Edgar examines the complex legacy of John D. Rockefeller, the oil tycoon whose business practices and philanthropic endeavors shaped the 19th and early 20th centuries.  Rockefeller's story is one of ambition, innovation, and controversy. In this episode, we discuss his business strategies, including vertical integration, which led to Standard Oil's near-monopoly of the oil industry. And how he channeled his massive wealth into charitable causes that impacted education, healthcare, and scientific research.  Join us as we explore the interplay between business, government, and public interest that remains relevant today.  Recommended reading: Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow's acclaimed biography "Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr." Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington DC.

Michael Rockefeller was the great grandson of John D. Rockefeller, the founder of Standard Oil and the richest man in the world. He was also the son of Nelson Rockefeller, New York governor, Vice President of the United States, and a well known art collector. Michael had big shoes to fill. To do that, he followed in his father's art collecting footsteps, traveling to the Asmat region on the west coast of New Guinea to collect wood carvings for his father's Museum of Primitive Art in Manhattan. The Asmat people were hunter gatherers living in the jungle with almost no western contact. They led a very different life than Michael, practiced head hunting and cannibalism. Michael admired the Asmat, their culture, their art. But he never truly understood them. He couldn't. So when his sailboat capsized near the village of Otsjanep and he disappeared attempting to swim to shore, never to be seen again, his family assumed he had drowned. But did Michael Rockefeller really drown? Or was his fate far more violent? Let's fix that. Support the show! Join the PatreonBuy Me a CoffeeVenmo @Shea-LaFountaineSources: "Savage Harvest: A Tale of Cannibals, Colonialism, and Michael Rockefeller's Tragic Quest for Primitive Art" by Carl HoffmanSmithsonian Magazine "What Really Happened to Michael Rockefeller"The Met Museum "Bis Pole"Rockefeller Archive Center "John D. Rockefeller"PBS American Experience "Biography: Nelson A. Rockefeller"NPR Author Interviews "Cannibals and Colonialism: Solving the Mystery of Michael Rockefeller"Shoot me a message!

The name of Nobel usually calls to mind Alfred Nobel, inventor of dynamite, and the internationally prestigious prizes that bear his name. But Alfred was only one member of a creative and innovative family who built an industrial empire in prerevolutionary Russia. The saga begins with an emigre from Sweden, Immanuel Nobel, who was an architect, a pioneer producer of steam engines, and a maker of weapons.Immanuel's sons included Alfred; Robert, who directed the family's activities in the Caspian oil fields; and Ludwig, an engineering genius and manufacturing magnate whose boundless energy and fierce determination created the Russian petroleum industry.Ludwig's son Emanuel showed similar mettle, shrewdly bargaining with the Rothschilds for control of the Russian markets and competing head-on with Standard Oil and Royal Dutch Shell for lucrative world markets.Perhaps no family in history has played so decisive a role in building an industrial empire in an underdeveloped but resource-rich nation. Yet the achievements of the Nobel family have been largely forgotten. When the Bolsheviks came to power, Emmanuel had to flee the country disguised as a peasant.The Nobel empire with its 50,000 workers lay in ruins. An empire which had taken eighty years to design and build, was nearly destroyed, bringing a sudden and bitter end to one of the most remarkable industrial odysseys in world history.This episode is what I learned from reading The Russian Rockefellers: The Saga of the Nobel Family and the Russian Oil Industry by Robert Tolf.----Make history's greatest entrepreneurs proud by going to Ramp and learning how they can help your business control your costs and save more. ----Founders Notes gives you the superpower to learn from history's greatest entrepreneurs on demand. You can search all my notes and highlights from every book I've ever read for the podcast. Get access to Founders Notes here. ----Join my free email newsletter to get my top 10 highlights from every book----Follow Founders Podcast on YouTube (Video coming soon!) ----“I have listened to every episode released and look forward to every episode that comes out. The only criticism I would have is that after each podcast I usually want to buy the book because I am interested so my poor wallet suffers. ” — GarethBe like Gareth. Buy a book: All the books featured on Founders Podcast

The Everything War: Amazon's Ruthless Quest to Own the World and Remake Corporate Power by Dana Mattioli https://amzn.to/3LyItfx Most Anticipated by Foreign Policy • Globe and Mail • Publishers Weekly • Next Big Idea Club Must Read April Books “Will stand as a classic.” – Christopher Leonard "Riveting, shocking, and full of revelations." - Bryan Burrough From veteran Amazon reporter for The Wall Street Journal, The Everything War is the first untold, devastating exposé of Amazon's endless strategic greed, from destroying Main Street to remaking corporate power, in pursuit of total domination, by any means necessary. In 2017, Lina Khan published a paper that accused Amazon of being a monopoly, having grown so large, and embedded in so many industries, it was akin to a modern-day Standard Oil. Unlike Rockefeller's empire, however, Bezos's company had grown voraciously without much scrutiny. In fact, for over twenty years, Amazon had emerged as a Wall Street darling and its “customer obsession” approach made it indelibly attractive to consumers across the globe. But the company was not benevolent; it operated in ways that ensured it stayed on top. Lina Khan's paper would light a fire in Washington, and in a matter of years, she would become the head of the FTC. In 2023, the FTC filed a monopoly lawsuit against Amazon in what may become one of the largest antitrust cases in the 21st century. With unparalleled access, and having interviewed hundreds of people – from Amazon executives to competitors to small businesses who rely on its marketplace to survive – Mattioli exposes how Amazon was driven by a competitive edge to dominate every industry it entered, bulldozed all who stood in its way, reshaped the retail landscape, transformed how Wall Street evaluates companies, and altered the very nature of the global economy. It has come to control most of online retail, and uses its own sellers' data to compete with them through Amazon's own private label brands. Millions of companies and governmental agencies use AWS, paying hefty fees for the service. And, the company has purposefully avoided collecting taxes for years, exploited partners, and even copied competitors—leveraging its power to extract whatever it can, at any cost. It has continued to gain market share in disparate areas, from media to logistics and beyond. Most companies dominate one or two industries; Amazon now leads in several. And all of this was by design. The Everything War is the definitive, inside story of how it grew into one of the most powerful and feared companies in the world – and why this lawsuit opens a window into the most consequential business story of our times.

The one-time most powerful man in the world is now being told when to sit, when to stand, and what he's permitted to say. Scenes from the New York courthouse, with Olivia Nuzzi. Plus, Dana Mattioli discusses her book on Amazon, a modern-day Standard Oil, with huge power across numerous industries—but which is also on the outs in DC. show notes: Dana's book, "The Everything War: Amazon's Ruthless Quest to Own the World and Remake Corporate Power."

PREVIEW: #APPLE: #DOJ: Conversation with colleague Professor Richard Epstein of the Hoover Institution re the assertion by Assistant US Attorney General Jonathan Kanter that the anti-trust case against Apple is in the league of the DOJ cases aganst Standard Oil, AT&T and Microsoft.  More later. 1904 Standard Oil of New Jersey