The year 2008 was a reminder to those who had forgotten that there is such a thing as history and that the cycle of famine and feast in commerce, first identified in antiquity and well understood in the Middle Ages, was not suddenly abolished in modern times.

Summary

This quote emphasizes that the year 2008 served as a reminder of the cyclical nature of history, specifically in economic terms. It suggests that the pattern of feast and famine in commerce, recognized in ancient times and well comprehended in the Middle Ages, did not abruptly disappear in the modern era. The reference to 2008 likely alludes to the global financial crisis that occurred that year, highlighting how it showcased the recurrence of economic ups and downs throughout history. Overall, the quote encourages readers to acknowledge and learn from historical patterns in order to navigate present and future economic challenges.

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