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The Fish That Ate the Whale: The Life and Times of America's Banana King

This is the fascinating story of how a poor Russian, Jewish immigrant ended up becoming one of the most powerful men in America in the early 1900s via the banana trade. The story feels too wild to be true, and details the history of active US meddling in Central American governments (and the associated exploitation of labor) to support political goals. Eating bananas now feels a bit weird.

This is a part of my Media Diet. Learn more about this project here.

Ratings

These are entirely subjective, and roughly try to capture my personal enjoyment and usefulness, and how likely I'd recommend it to others. Don't read too much into this unless you love my judgement. Rough guidelines:

A: Top quartile. Changed the way I think about something.

B: Worthwhile. I took away something useful.

C: Didn't hit, wouldn't directly recommend. Likely won't revisit.

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