This history and analysis examines fifteen great inflations--from Ancient Rome to the French Revolution to post-World War I Germany to modern-day Brazil--to provide an understanding of the causes of inflation. A unique feature of the book is the evidence presented that a moderate degree of inflation is usually accompanied by increased economic activity. Contrary to the views of many, moderate inflation appears to be welcomed by most people and assists in returning incumbent political leaders to power. In addition, the money illusion, the belief that money has constant value over time, is...