The Collapse of the German War Economy, 1944-1945: Allied Air Power and the German National Railway

Book Description

In this book, Alfred Mierzejewski describes how the German economy collapsed under Allied bombing in the last year of World War II. He presents a broad-based, original study of German wartime industry and transportation, and of Allied air force planning and intelligence, including the first complete analysis in English of the German National Railway.

The German industrial economy was extraordinarily dependent on the timely, adequate distribution of coal by railroad and inland waterway. The German National Railway in particular was the pivot of the finely balanced armaments production and distribution system created by Albert Speer. But Allied strategists did not immediately recognize this. Only in late 1944, when Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Sir Arthur Tedder built a new strategic consensus, was this vital coal/transport nexus severed. The result was the rapid paralysis of the Nazi war economy.

Mierzejewski measures the economic consequences of the bombing by considering broad indices such as armaments and coal production, railway performance, and weapons deliveries to the armed forces. In addition, he shows how individual companies in each of Germany's major economic regions fared. By drawing on previously unexamined filed of private German manufacturing companies, the Reich Transportation Ministry, and Allied air intelligence agencies, Mierzejewski creates a rare combination of economic analysis and military history that provides new perspectives on the German war economy and Allied air intelligence.

Customer Reviews:

The right thing to bomb.......1999-12-23

Through most of the last half century, the Allied Strategic Air campaign against Germany has been criticized as ineffective. Alfred C. Mierzejewski suggests that this was only true till late 1944. After that, bombing became devastating.

In 1942 and '43, the U.S. and Britain attacked arms factories and housing respectively. The Germans kept fighting and war production kept going up.

In 1944, the Allies increasingly turned to synthetic petroleum plants and the German transportation system. The result was a catastrophic breakdown in all areas of the German war economy.

We'll never know what would have happened if the railyards serving the Ruhr's coal fields had been hit starting in 1940, but Mierzejewski makes a good case that it would have seriously weakened Germany much sooner, and quite possibly ended the war in 1944.

This is a very good study, well worth reading and thinking about. I recommend it to all my fellow armchair strategists.

Book Description

Exchange rates have been central to the course of economic development in Latin America from the heyday of import substitution to the rapid expansion of foreign debt in the 1970s, and from the debt crisis and its troubled aftermath to renewed growth and borrowing in the 1990s.

Why do governments choose the currency policies they do, and how do economic and political factors affect these policies? Although currency policy is made by governments operating in a political environment, there has been little study of the political economy of exchange rate policy. The Currency Game looks to fill this void by examining the range of potential determinants of currency choices by Latin American governments. While purely economic factors--especially economic structure, trade patterns, and exogenous economic conditions--are of course important to these choices, the book focuses on the political and political economy considerations that have typically been underrepresented in the literature. These include the effects of interest groups, electoral competition, and the timing of elections on exchange rate decisions.

Since exchange regimes are adopted for reasons as diverse as inflation control, reduced volatility and improved competitiveness, the book also features a cross-country analysis of national exchange rate policies, as well as case studies of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia and Peru.

Book Description

XQuery Kick Start delivers a concise introduction to the XQuery standard, and useful implementation advice for developers needing to put it into practice. The book starts by explaining the role of XQuery in the XML family of specifications, and its relationship with XPath. The authors then explain the specification in detail, describing the semantics and data model, before moving to examples using XQuery to manipulate XML databases and document storage systems. Later chapters discuss Java implementations of XQuery and development tools that facilitate the development of Web sites with XQuery. This book is up to date with the latest XQuery specifications, and includes coverage of new features for extending the XQuery language.

Download Description

As more developers use XML to store and define data in their applications, they need tools to process and manipulate it. XQuery is the official World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) specification for an XML query language. The final version of XQuery is expected at the end of 2002, and developers will crave information and useful implementation advice about this new XML tool. Xquery Kick Start will deliver both - covering the full specification and providing useful examples for developers to put into practice immediately. The book starts by explaining the roll of XQuery in the XML family of specifications, and its very direct relationship to XPath. The author then explain the specification in detail, describing the semantics and data model, before moving to examples of XQuery's use in manipulating XML databases and document storage systems. Later chapters discuss the .NET and Java implementations of XQuery and discuss development tools that facilitate XQuery development.

Customer Reviews:

Poorly organized, random topics with little meat.......2004-06-28

I don't think I've read a computer book as poorly organized as this one. The basic premise seems to be present some random aspects of XQuery or related topics in a chapter and have no flow through the book.

There is a lot of good material in the book but try to find it - it's more or less impossible because the index is abysmal. There's no real introduction to how to use XQuery - instead we start off with XSLT. That may be OK (they are related) but it seemed a bit strange to me.

Another problem with the book is that some of it is out of date. The XQuery specification is a work in progress but the book was written after (and refers to) the final draft - but a lot of the examples are not compliant with that final draft.

The best thing that I can say about this book is that it forced me to research issues more deeply and therefore find out what I needed to know. I wouldn't buy this book - try to borrow it and see if it meets your needs.

XQuery.......2004-01-24

These guys put together a wonderful book; I've find it an ideal guide to solving pitfalls using XQuery. Having this book on my desktop help me in preventing potential problems with my code and saving countless hours of time tracking down issues that aren't initially apparent.

How to use XQuery.......2004-01-23

Many of the books on XQuery tell you how XQuery was created but not how to use it. This one is different and will help you hit the ground running. I recommend buying this book.

Essential XQuery.......2004-01-18

This book is about best practices, patterns and anti-patterns, and about how to use XML and XQuery correctly and efficiently. It will be useful to a professional with any level of experience. It may be used as a tutorial and read from the cover to cover, or one can enjoy reading selected items, depending on the experience and taste. The book's very detailed index makes it an excellent reference on the subject as well.

Book Description

This handbook is a compilation of the best practices in Commonwealth countries that support the development of businesses owned and/or operated by women. The case study format is given some authenticity by the success stories related by women from across the Commonwealth. Fifteen countries have been featured. The best practice will assist women entrepreneurs from around the world who want to learn successful strategies from leading women entrepreneurs.

Book Description

DESCRIPTION

HOW TO FIND OPPORTUNITIES AND CASH IN ON THEM BY JACK EDWARD OLSON

YOUR RESUME MAY BE HOLDING YOU BACK * Why do some people just seem to fall into that once-in-a-lifetime job? * Others even get set up in business with no out-of-pocket money * Some get hired or promoted when there are no positions open * And how do people beat out the competition even without a resume, and at top salaries? * People even move into careers for which their resume would disqualify them. And they do it easily! How?

Anybody can do all of these things. HOW TO FIND OPPORTUNITIES AND CASH IN ON THEM reveals the secrets, all generously illustrated with examples. From simple techniques that can be used immediately, to preparing an irresistible proposal. It shows how to identify and find opportunities, create and evaluate ideas, develop plans, sell yourself, gain support, rise above the competition, discover what's holding you back, and create a demand for yourself and your ideas. It contains helps, resources and techniques. It is dedicated to the elimination of resume dependency for job search and money dependancy for business start-up.

Customer Reviews:

Available At Last.......2004-05-05

Jack has finally done it.

40 years of experience, lecture and seminar notes are now available in this volume. The techniques and tips are backed up with actual examples. Progress charts are provided.

Mr Olson was once challenged by a sceptic to get a job with a company in an area where he had no experience within 24hrs during a period of time when jobs were scarce. He handed over the Telephone Yellow Pages and asked that a company be selected at random.

Just using the principles outlined in this book, he was offered a job before the end of the next day, even though the company was not looking for new employees.

I have personally used these principles down thru the years and have found them to be valuable.

If you are out of job or looking for a job change for what ever reason, get this book.

It might just improve your outlook on life as well as help you get a job or perhaps a new career, no matter what your background.

Also I beleive the book might also qualify as a study quide for an employee training program.

If there is draw back to the book, it is this: It will require action on the part of the reader, to go thru check lists, etc.

The short sentence on the page opposite the beginning of Chapter 13 states " The person who is willing to search for a solution is more qualified than the one who knows it can't be done"

Average customer rating:

Save Your Money

Top Dollar Property Claims

Extremely well written......

MY INSURANCE CLAIM INCREASED FROM $704 TO $31,000!

Top Dollar Property Claims : Secrets to Successful Insurance Claim Settlements
Les Watrous
Manufacturer: TGWB Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Insurance | Industries & Professions | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
General | Personal Finance | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

Mold, Fire, Flood & Other Topics: Homeowners Insurance Explained

How to Make Insurance Companies Pay Your Claims: And What To Do If They Don't

Get Your Claim Paid: A Pro-Active Guide for Handling the Most Difficult Part of Insurance

Well Adjusted: 185 Success Tips for the Adjuster's Career

Policy Ensurance

ASIN: 0965453715

Customer Reviews:

Save Your Money.......2007-02-09

The author of this book has a hidden agenda and it is not to benefit the insured. The author hammers public adjusters (who are consumer advocates) with a comment that public adjusters charge 15-50 percent. Many states have statuatory requirements that a fee cannot exceed 10 percent and at least one state is lower.

"No other class of adjusters is more at odds with insurance companies than the public adjuster", states Mr. Author. Why would someone spin this? Of course the public adjuster is at odds. The public adjuster obtains a full settlement. To negoitate and insurance claim: "Perhaps your best choice is the qualified restoration contractor because he/she is primarily involved in day to day contact with insurance companies negotiating and adjusting property claims". Sounds like adjusting claims without a license to me and ... can you really trust your contractor to obtain a good personal property or additional living expense claim?

The author further dreams up statements like this: "If you are not in the position to be advancing payment for services and expenses, the need to retain a restoration contractor is even more important". Nonsense. Get an advance from your insurer.

Get the insurance company's settlement first and then hire a contractor. That way you will know how much you have to work with. Further, if you have had a fire, now is the time to change what you don't like about your house with your rebuild money. Do what is best for you, not some guy with a hammer and saw.

The name "Top Dollar Property Claims" should be changed to "Top Dollar Property Claims for your Contractor".

Top Dollar Property Claims.......2000-07-08

One of the 10 Best Real Estate Reads of the year By Robert J. Bruss Los Angeles Times

How to settle insurance claims for top dollar TOP DOLLAR PROPERTY CLAIMS, By Les Watrous Many homeowners have recently been hit with storm damage. Les Watrous' excellent new book comes just in time to help them settle their claims for top dollar. An example in the book involves a homeowner whose residence suffered water damage due to a broken pipe. The insurance company adjuster offered $740 to settle the claim. But she followed the steps outlined in the book to document the extent of the insured damage and wound up with a settlement check of over $31,000, to restore the home to pre-damage condition. If insurance companies were smart, they would buy up every copy of this book to keep it out of homeowners' hands! This great how-to book should be in every home and public library. It is authoritative, accurate and filled with practical advise for consumers on how to handle the big, impersonal insurance companies On my scale of one to 10, this outstanding book rates an off-the-chart 12.

Extremely well written.............1998-04-03

Many homeowners have recently been hit with storm damage and other insured residence claims. Les Watrous' excellent new book comes just in time to help them settle their insurance claims for top dollar. An example in the book involves a homeowner whose residence suffered water damage due to a broken pipe. The insurance company adjuster offered $740 to settle the claim. But she followed the steps outlined in the book to document the extent of the insured damage and wound up with a settlement check of over $31,000, to restore the home back to pre-damage condition. Having had an insurance claim last year that was denied by State Farm with a 22-page denial letter, but later paid in full for $3600, I wish this new book had been available then. If insurance companies were smart, they would buy up every copy of this book to keep it out of homeowner's hands! The author shows homeowners how to properly make their homeowner's insurance claims; how to carefully document the damage; how to handle first line adjusters who are trained to m ake a quick, cheap settlement; how to find contractors experienced with insurance repairs; how to be sure of complete payment, including required building code upgrades; and what to do at each step to avoid complications. This extremely well-written book is a fun read with great graphics, illustrations, lots of examples, necessary forms for damage documentation, and summaries of what is insured and what isn't. Although the book is full of details, it isn't bogged down with technicalities. This great how-to book should be in every home and public library. It is authoritative, accurate and filled with practical advice for consumers on how to handle the big, impersonal insurance companies. It even lists Internet Web sites where you can get more help. The author, while noting that many insurance companies handle claims very fairly, warns homeowners to be prepared for the worst; if no problems develop, they can be pleasantly surprised. On my scale of one to 10, this outstanding book rates an off-the-chart 12. Robert J. Bruss, National Syndicated Columnist Used by Permission

MY INSURANCE CLAIM INCREASED FROM $704 TO $31,000!.......1997-12-04

I bought Top Dollar Property Claims after my insurance company wanted to settle my claim for $740. By following the techniques and suggestions in this book, my claim settled for more than $31,000! Nella McNamara, La Verne, California.

Book Description

When Ohio-based Crown Controls was begun in 1945, there was no way to foresee that fifty years later, it would be the leader in the narrow-aisle lift truck market, the largest manufacturer of electric material-handling equipment in the world. How did this happen? In a narrative featuring an unlikely cast of characters, we watch this community-based company educate itself to make the upwardly mobile journey to market domination.

Demonstrated in scenes and anecdotes, the Crown story teaches fundamental entrepreneurial lessons. The economic parables of Crown's formative decisions provide a unique but universal parallel to any young business anywhere.

Customer Reviews:

Simplistic.......2000-12-22

I was greatly disappointed in this book. The writing style was inconsistent and the layout was visually obnoxious. I mention this because if there was any useful information in this book, the presentation distracted from it incredibly.

The primary points in this book were elementary, and most people could be more creative and productive without this book. I would not recommend this book. If you have a good business plan, have a group of friends read it, take them out to dinner and brainstorm. You will have more fun, and get a better return on investment.

Average customer rating:
Trademark: How to Name Your Business and Product

Manufacturer: Nolo Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000HFLNRW

Average customer rating:
Ecuador Investment & Business Guide
Emerging Markets Investment Center
Manufacturer: International Business Publications, USA
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: 0739702483

Book Description

This investment guide contains basic information on economy, business, export-import and investment climate, opportunities, regulations. Provides strategic information on economy, industrial development, banking, and government. Includes information on the most important business contacts and business travel. Updated annually.

Average customer rating:

Ecuador Investment & Business Guide
USA International Business Publications
Manufacturer: International Business Publications, USA
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: 0739717502

Book Description

This investment guide contains basic information on economy, business, export-import and investment climate, opportunities and regulations. Provides strategic information on economy, industrial development, banking, and government. Includes information on the most important business contacts and business travel. Updated annually.

Ecuador Mineral & Mining Sector Investment And Business Guide (World Business, Investment and Government Library)

Average customer rating:

Ecuador Mineral & Mining Sector Investment And Business Guide (World Business, Investment and Government Library)
USA International Business Publications
Manufacturer: Intl Business Pubns USA
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Exports & Imports | Economics | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | International | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Industries & Professions | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0739750569

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