Book description
A groundbreaking journey tracing America's forgotten path to global power―and how its legacies shape our world today―told through the extraordinary life of a complicated Marine. "Far more extraordinary than even the life of Smedley Butler."―The Washington Post Smedley Butler was the most celebrated warfighter of his time. Bestselling books were written about him. Hollywood adored him. Wherever the flag went, "The Fighting Quaker" went--serving in nearly every major overseas conflict from the Spanish War of 1898 until the eve of World War II. From his first days as a 16-year-old recruit at the newly seized Guantánamo Bay, he blazed a path for empire: helping annex the Philippines and the land for the Panama Canal, leading troops in China (twice), and helping invade and occupy Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, Haiti, Mexico, and more. Yet in retirement, Butler turned into a warrior against war, imperialism, and big business, declaring: "I was a racketeer for capitalism." Award-winning author Jonathan Myerson Katz traveled across the world--from China to Guantánamo, the mountains of Haiti to the Panama Canal--and pored over the personal letters of Butler, his fellow Marines, and his Quaker family on Philadelphia's Main Line. Along the way, Katz shows how the consequences of the Marines' actions are still very much alive: talking politics with a Sandinista commander in Nicaragua, getting a martial arts lesson from a devotee of the Boxer Rebellion in China, and getting cast as a P.O.W. extra in a Filipino movie about their American War. Tracing a path from the first wave of U.S. overseas expansionism to the rise of fascism in the 1930s to the crises of democracy in our own time, Gangsters of Capitalism tells an urgent story about a formative era most Americans have never learned about, but that the rest of the world cannot forget.
Mad Jack
The intuitive interface and seamless navigation make this app a joy to use. This app is a game-changer for busy individuals who miss reading. ListenBook has truly transformed my audiobook experience. The sleek interface, extensive format support, and easy downloading options make it my go-to app! Auto-rewind is a very handy feature. Excellent app. I'm so glad I chose the audiobook version! The narrator added layers of meaning I might have missed reading silently. Their interpretation of the material felt thoughtful and authentic. The recording was technically perfect - no reverb, no peaking, just clean, pleasant audio.
Essex
This app's seamless integration with CarPlay and other devices has revolutionized my audiobook experience. With this app, my daily routines have become moments of intellectual exploration and personal growth. Looping playback has revolutionized my study sessions. I'm learning faster than ever. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fantastic way to introduce them to captivating stories.
Dahlia Bumble
With ListenBook, I've found a reliable and enjoyable way to listen to audiobooks and expand my knowledge. ListenBook has become my go-to app for all things audio – from lectures to speeches, it's got it all. This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work!
Black Walnut
This app has turned my daily routine into a source of excitement and joy. Effortless audiobook management – this app's usability is a triumph. Organization made simple – this app's efficient management of my audiobook collection ensures that every story is just a tap away. Convenience at its finest. 📖📱 The app's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically is a huge time-saver. I’ve been using ListenBook for months, and it’s been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesn’t drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend!
Sylvester Eye
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. 🧘♂️ Finding zen through storytelling – this app makes meditation even more calming. 🧘♂️🎧 Looping playback is a game-changer for my study sessions. I can focus on challenging content.
StarStrider
User-centric audiobook joy – this app's ease of use is impressive. ListenBook has become my trusted companion for literary adventures. The app's features are exceptional. The interface is beautiful and functional. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks. This app is a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. The ability to adjust skip intervals and playback speed is fantastic. I also love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Worth every penny!
Capital F
ListenBook's audio filters and controls have revolutionized the way I enjoy my audio content. ListenBook has made my daily walks so much more enjoyable. I'm always learning now!
Dream Killer
I can't thank this app enough for making my audiobook experience exceptional. Its intuitive interface and diverse compatibility are a true game-changer. 📱🎧 Automated artwork and metadata retrieval add a professional touch to my audiobook library.
Necromancer
I can't imagine my life without this app – it's my constant source of books. My daily workouts are more enjoyable now, thanks to seamless integration with Apple Watch.
Chicago Blackout
ListenBook's library organization and book groups make managing my collection effortless. 🚶♀️🌌 This app's functionality makes every walk an adventure – I'm immersed in stories as I explore the world around me. 🏞️📖 ListenBook's sleek layout and quick chapter access have made my audiobook journey incredibly enjoyable. This was my first audiobook in this genre and I'm hooked! The performance brought the story to life in a way reading never could. Already downloaded another by the same narrator.
Father Abbot
Audiobooks have made my commutes so much more enjoyable, and I'm always excited to listen. With ListenBook, I can explore new genres, learn new topics, and enjoy classic literature with ease. Audiobook enthusiasts, celebrate! This app's thoughtful features, like auto-rewind and easy chapter navigation, cater perfectly to our reading cravings. 🎉📚 ListenBook’s playback speed control is very useful. I can listen at my own pace. ListenBook’s audio quality is excellent. The app enhances my listening experience.
Swedish Pixie
This app is my secret weapon for learning while I'm on the move. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while commuting.
Tokyo Dream
The absence of synchronization requirements on ListenBook is a breath of fresh air. ListenBook's versatile features have made my audiobook experience more enjoyable than ever. 🛌 Bedtime stories for adults? Yes, please! This app is a dream come true. 🌙📚 I love the ability to import books from my computer. It’s so easy.
Mule Skinner
The captivating narrators make each story come alive in a unique way. No more hassle with converting files – ListenBook supports a wide range of formats for a seamless listening experience. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration is a brilliant touch. 🎉 Unveiling the joy of reading once again – this app is my gateway to literary wonders! 📚🔓 I'm impressed by the extensive statistics feature, allowing me to track my audiobook consumption over time.
Acid Queen
The ability to adjust the playback speed has made my commute even more efficient. Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's functionality is a game-changer. The app is perfect for people who love to read but don’t have the time. I love the ability to import books from my computer. It’s so easy. ListenBook has completely changed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate. Five stars!
Toy Peep
💼 Workday blues? Not anymore – this app turns my office hours into reading time! 💻📖 ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is an innovative touch that adds a layer of personalization.
Campfire Mama
I've fallen in love with literature all over again, thanks to this incredible app. Looping playback helps me focus on challenging content and grasp complex concepts. A study must-have!
Nacho
ListenBook has completely changed my audiobook experience – it's like having a personal audio library. I'm amazed at how this app's narrators bring characters and stories to life. ListenBook's versatility and user-friendly interface make it a must-have for audiobook lovers. Supports all audio formats I use without issues. Very happy. I’ve been using ListenBook for months, and it’s been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesn’t drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend!
Nice Gnome
I can't imagine my audiobook routine without ListenBook's intuitive and user-friendly design. 🎉📚 Reigniting my passion for books – this app is my newfound reading obsession! 🔥🎧
Phoenix Sparrow
I appreciate the option to listen to samples before committing to a book. Who needs traditional books when you have this app? It's a game-changer. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, becoming an indispensable companion for various activities. Its user-friendly interface, features, and performance make it a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience