In this revelatory book, based on original research and interviews with more than one hundred key sources, Brian Doherty traces the evolution of the libertarian movement through the unconventional life stories of its most influential leaders-Ludwig von Mises, F. A. Hayek, Ayn Rand, Murray Rothbard, and Milton Friedman-and through the personal battles, character flaws, love affairs, and historical events that altered its course. And in doing so, he provides a fascinating new perspective on American history-from the New Deal through the culture wars of the 1960s to todays most divisive political issues.