The European Guilds by Sheilagh Ogilvie is a groundbreaking analysis of craft guilds across eight centuries, offering a comprehensive examination of their advantages and drawbacks.

Through vivid examples and clear economic reasoning, the book sheds light on the complex dynamics of these institutions, highlighting their impact on market competition, innovation, and social inequality.

The author's use of diverse voices and stories brings to life the experiences of guild members, including masters, journeymen, apprentices, and customers, while also exploring the toxic complicity between guilds and political elites.

With a focus on the period from 1000 to 1880, this book provides a detailed analysis of thousands of guilds, offering a nuanced understanding of their role in shaping European economic history.

Whether you're an economics enthusiast, historian, or simply interested in learning more about the complexities of medieval and early modern societies, The European Guilds is an essential read.