This book chronicles the extensive history of the Phelps Dodge Corporation, a significant entity in American industrial development, from its origins in 1834 through its formative years up to 1950. It details the company's evolution from a mercantile business to a major mining and smelting enterprise. The narrative likely examines the key figures, strategic decisions, and economic forces that shaped its trajectory over more than a century.

As a historical account of a major corporation, this work is likely to be regarded as a detailed and authoritative study for those interested in American business history, industrial development, and the mining sector. The author's focus on the period up to 1950 suggests a comprehensive examination of the company's foundational decades and its rise to prominence. The book probably serves as a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge of Phelps Dodge's significant contributions and operational history.