The Wealth of Nations

Forget gold in the king's coffers; Adam Smith's revolutionary 1776 treatise fundamentally redefined wealth, arguing that a nation's prosperity stems from its productive capacity—its labor, land, and capital. This sprawling masterpiece dissects the nascent industrial economy, introducing foundational concepts like the division of labor, free markets, supply and demand, and the 'invisible hand' that guides self-interest toward collective good. It's a comprehensive blueprint for understanding how economies function, moving beyond outdated mercantilist dogma to lay the groundwork for modern capitalism.