The Plunger

"The Plunger" is a gripping biographical account of Benjamin Hutchinson, the legendary 19th-century speculator who became known as "Old Hutch" on the floors of the Chicago Board of Trade. Written by Edward Jerome Dies, this work delves into the high-stakes world of the American grain markets during an era of unprecedented financial maneuvering and market volatility.

The narrative follows Hutchinson's rise and his audacious attempts to corner the wheat market, illustrating the sheer nerve and strategic brilliance required to navigate the chaotic trading pits of Chicago. Through a detailed exploration of his most famous exploits, the book captures the essence of a man who could sway the price of bread across the nation with a single move. "The Plunger" serves as both a character study of a financial titan and a historical document of the early American commodities industry.

Readers interested in financial history, the mechanics of market speculation, and the personal dramas of Gilded Age capitalists will find this work indispensable. It provides a window into the evolution of modern trading and the enduring legacy of one of the most colorful and influential figures in the history of American commerce.

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