Includes bibliographical references (pages 249-273) and index.

Introduction: The wise old parrot -- Growing up -- Getting an education -- Early experience -- Off to Washington -- "The best job in the world" -- Monetary reform frustrated -- Back to the beginning -- Attacking inflation -- Financial crises, domestic and international -- Unfinished business : repairing the financial system -- After the Fed -- Mr. Chairman in several guises -- The search for integrity -- Setting standards -- The new financial world : breakdown and reform -- The three verities -- Epilogue: Credit where credit is due.

"As chairman of the Federal Reserve (1979-1987), Paul Volcker slayed the inflation dragon that was consuming the American economy and restored the world's faith in central bankers. That extraordinary feat was just one pivotal episode in a decades-long career serving six presidents. His insight into world-changing events such as the end of the Bretton Woods system, the closing of the 'gold window,' and the financial crisis of 2008 provide enduring lessons about the critical importance of open, disciplined, and efficient government. Told with wit, humor, and down-to-earth erudition, the narrative of Volcker's career illuminates the changes that have taken place in American life, government, and the economy since World War II. He vibrantly illustrates the crises he managed alongside the world's leading politicians, central bankers, and financiers. Yet he first found his model for competent and ethical governance in his father, the town manager of Teaneck, NJ, who instilled Volcker's dedication to absolute integrity and his "three verities" of stable prices, sound finance, and good government."--Publisher's description.