Bainbridge, Jr., John. Gun Barons: The Weapons That Transformed America and the Men Who
Invented Them. New York: St. Martin's Press, 2022. ISBN: 9781250266866
Guns are part of American history. The Kentucky rifle, The Colt six-shooter, the Winchester rifle have all played a part in American history and American myths. John Bainbridge, Jr. seeks to bring to life the men behind these iconic firearms in the Gun Barons.
Samuel Colt was the first gun baron, but it took him two tries before he was successful with selling his revolver. It took the endorsement of a Texas Ranger and the Mexican-American War plus a few court cases before his became a major weapons producer. The Remington family took a while before they became known for their rifles. Oliver Winchester made a fortune in shirts before he got involved in creating weapons. Horace Smith was employed by Ethan Allen in helping improve the Allen pepperbox pistol before he joined with Daniel Wesson to make pistols. Christopher Spencer got interested in gun making from time spent on his grandfather's farm. Each man had to overcome obstacles to succeed. Some achieved only fleeting success while others went on to great profits and renown. But each story is intertwined with others and part of the tapestry of American history.
If the reader want an overview of the weapon makers of 19th century America, Gun Barons is the book for you. The reader will gain an appreciation for how everything works since "no man is an island unto themselves" (John Donne).
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