Author: Steve Coll
Description: In this captivating account, New York Times bestselling author Steve Coll takes you deep into the heart of one of the most significant corporate breakups in American history. Chronicling events that started in 1974 when the US Department of Justice initiated an antitrust lawsuit against AT&T, the narrative follows the intense battles that unfolded over the course of a decade. AT&T held a monopoly over telephone service, and the struggle for control involved a cast of characters including lawyers, politicians, and high-ranking executives.
This book provides an extraordinary look behind the scenes of a colossal legal battle, detailing the efforts of those involved as they navigated the complexities of corporate law and government intervention. Coll’s meticulous reporting delivers not just facts but also the human drama that accompanied these events. Reviewers have characterized this work as a "superbly reported" narrative, shedding light on the intricate web of influences that reshaped the telecommunications industry.
Throughout its pages, The Deal of the Century weaves together the personal stories of individuals who played crucial roles in this transformation, illustrating the stakes and challenges they faced. As the narrative unfolds, readers gain insight into how America’s approach to business and regulation evolved as a result of these dramatic transformations.
The book has been hailed by critics, with the New York Times Book Review calling it "rich, intricate, and convincing." It is not only a historical account but a thorough analysis of how a significant shift affected ordinary Americans and set the stage for future advancements in telecommunications.
Whether you are a business enthusiast, a history buff, or just curious about the impact of corporate actions on everyday life, this book offers a compelling read that brings to light the intricate details of a corporate saga that forever changed the landscape of business in the United States.
