This text blends economic theory with empirical evidence to chart business development over the last two centuries in the UK, the United States, Japan and Australia. Each chapter considers an issue of current significance, introduces theories to illuminate the topic, and discusses historical evidence and debates.

History and Theory of the Growth of the Firm.- Entrepreneurship and Management.- Information and Uncertainty.- Corporate Finance.- Labour Management.- Production.- Marketing.- Structure.- Inter-organisational Relations and Co-operative Structures.- International Business.- Government and Business.- Future Directions in Business History.

This innovative business history text book blends economic theory with empirical evidence to chart business development over the last two centuries in the UK, the United States, Japan and Australia. Each chapter considers an issue of current significance, introduces theories to illuminate the topic and discusses historical evidence and debates. Features include: boxed case studies and original documents; illustrations and statistical tables; discussion questions and suggestions for further reading. Themes include:* History and Theory of the Growth of the Firm* Entrepreneurship and Management* Information and Uncertainty* Corporate Finance* Labour Management* Production* Marketing* Structure* Inter-organisational Relations and Co-operative Structures* International Business* Government and BusinessThe Development of Modern Business addresses enduring concerns for entrepreneurs, managers and students and demonstrates the value of an historical perspective from which to judge present day issues.

'A long-awaited and truly valuable text for Australian Business History students, as well as a welcome addition to reading lists in History and Business Studies.' - Dr Pamela Statham & Mr Brian Gidney, The University of Western Australia 'There is no doubt that the book will greatly facilitate the teaching of business history, and as an integrated text spanning all the major managerial sub-disciplines, it is a useful reference point for scholars in the general field of international business history and beyond.' - Steven Toms, Business History 'Very interesting combination of theory and history.' - Professor G. Jones, Harvard Business School

A long-awaited and truly valuable text for Australian Business History students, as well as a welcome addition to reading lists in History and Business Studies.' - Dr Pamela Statham & Mr Brian Gidney, The University of Western Australia 'There is no doubt that the book will greatly facilitate the teaching of business history, and as an integrated text spanning all the major managerial sub-disciplines, it is a useful reference point for scholars in the general field of international business history and beyond.' - Steven Toms, Business History 'Very interesting combination of theory and history.' - Professor G. Jones, Harvard Business School

Applies historical evidence to help students understand theoretical and current business issues International approach: compares Britain, USA, Japan and Australia Original documents and company studies, an extensive bibliography and a full range of pedagogical features aid student learning