Traite de la Circulation et du Credit

PINTO, ISAAC DE

Marc Michel Rey

Amsterdam

1771

FIRST EDITION. Additional 8-page note on the state of English finances in 1770 (interim half-sheet H*) inserted after p.128 and usually lacking. (Utilizes Hebrew type for the Hebrew terms interest and usury: Neshech and Tarbith )

Einaudi 4447; Goldsmiths' 10791; Kress 6811; McCulloch p.347

First edition of this “sound and ingenious” work of economic-philosophy. An important work on revenue and stock exchange transactions, in which Pinto saw economic advancement for Jews a suitable response to those who denounced the “Jewish Problem.” If Jews were no longer politically forced to occupy a parasitic economic role in Society, their economic enhancement would be desirable for all. - No doubt a suitable response to the theories of Voltaire. Pinto (1715-1787) was descended from a Portuguese-Jewish family and lived for some time at Bordeaux. “He then settled in Holland, where he soon made a large fortune and an equally great reputation. The Stathouder William IV (1747-51) had a very high opinion of his advice, both on administration and finance. He was as tolerant as he was high-minded, and his benevolence won him popularity.” (Palgrave). A deeply cultured Jew of the Enlightenment he used his combative pen to defend Jewish honor