Review: The Women of Rothschild: The Untold Story of the World's Most Famous Dynasty

The Women of Rothschild: The Untold Story of the World's Most Famous Dynasty by Natalie Livingstone
My rating: 0 of 5 stars

Fascinating and engrossing tale of the women of the Rothschild family, a long-overdue history of the role played by the wives, mothers, daughters and sisters of this storied dynasty. There have been countless books, articles and even films detailing the roles of the Rothschild men, especially the five brothers who spread themselves across Europe establishing a banking house that would fund kingdoms and industries and play a role in the pivotal events of the 19th and 20th centuries. But it all began with Gutle Schnapper marrying Mayer Amschel Rothschild in Frankfurt.

Ten of Gutle's children survived, marrying into prominent Anglo-Jewish families like the Montefiores and broadening the scope of the Rothschild house. While the women were not directly involved in the banking business, they played a massive behind the scenes role advising their men, but also founding charities, social action agencies and schools, socializing with politicians, and cultivating relationships that furthered the family's interests.

In addition to being wives and mothers, the Rothschild women were scientists, artists, rebels, intrepid travelers, and more. The author's writing style keeps the reader involved in the lives of these women and brings their world with its tragedies, joys, and frustrations to life. Highly recommended for those interested in Anglo and European women's histories in the modern era.

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