Russian Oligarchs

In his book "The Oligarchs - Wealth and Power in the New Russia", David E. Hoffman digs into a symbolic period of Russian history where capitalism, a disorderly and wild one it must be said, was given birth straight from the ruins of Soviet Communism. It is a story that takes you on a ride of the accomplishments of six of Russia's most prosperous businessmen, and with it their grand failures. Hoffman comprehensively describes the half a dozen tycoons who attempted to change a country from its backward lifestyle of socialism, and into a new era of establishing a stable economy to join the capitalist Western countries of the world. However, good intentions are hard done by. The Oligarchs, who came to be known as some of Russia's most shrewd but ruthless men, capitalized on holes in the economy as Communism continued to crumble. They managed to get their hands on fast money, and this led each to aim higher in hopes of immense fortunes. The mega power brokers managed to get trusting Western lenders to donate billions of dollars, and soon after took off with the assets. Although the stories are different of how each individual came into their own rank, there is a distinctive similarity that groups them together. The new age presented possibilities for them to use their sharp skills and use the element of deception towards their favor to become creators of their own destiny. It is a story of alliances and mistrust, tribulations and opportunities, fate and misfortunes. A saga that leaves you captivated and wondering if these six men actually helped open the eyes of the Russian people into a new world economy, or were they quite simply scheming entrepreneurs who arguably carried out one of the most magnificent heists in history.