Brilliantly argued and highly engaging, Why Nations Fail tackles one of the most enduring questions in history: Why do some nations thrive while others remain trapped in poverty and instability? Rejecting explanations rooted in geography, culture, or ignorance of sound policies, authors Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson make a compelling case that it is the design of political and economic institutions—shaped by historical power dynamics—that ultimately determines a nation's success or failure. Drawing on 15 years of in-depth research, the authors present striking case studies from around the globe—from the divided Korean Peninsula to the rise and fall of empires like Rome and Venice, to the contrasting paths of African nations such as Botswana and Zimbabwe. They argue that inclusive institutions, which distribute power and opportunity broadly, lead to sustained growth and stability, while extractive institutions, which concentrate power in the hands of a few, result in stagnation and suffering. This groundbreaking work doesn’t just explore the past—it also examines pressing global issues, such as China’s authoritarian growth model, the future of American democracy, and the best strategies for lifting billions out of poverty.Why Nations Fail is a transformative book that will reshape how you view global economics, politics, and the roots of inequality.