This fascinating work, originally published in 1873, is a thoroughly recommended read for any political economist or historian. A comprehensive and informative look at the subject that was intended to refute some of the arguments urged against the Freedom of Trade at the time of the book’s publication. Its 241 pages read as an extended essay written in a personal and engaging style. We are republishing this classic work with a brand new introductory biography on the author. Claude Frédéric Bastiat was best known as a political economist and member of the French assembly. He developed many important economic concepts and wrote several books including 'Parable of the Broken Window' (1850) and 'The Law' (1850)