Part 6/10:
Inevitably, the bubble burst. By the autumn of 1720, the euphoria evaporated, and stock prices dropped dramatically, leaving economic ruin in its wake. Many ordinary investors lost their life savings; the aftermath left a society in upheaval, seeking accountability for the rampant corruption and financial mismanagement from influential political figures.
Among the notable winners was Thomas Guy, a book dealer turned investor who astutely navigated the market. His calculated selling garnered him staggering wealth. In stark contrast, figures such as the Duke of Portland found their fortunes evaporating due to poor investment decisions, and even the renowned scientist Isaac Newton famously quipped about his miscalculations in human behavior amidst market fluctuations.