The Roman Empire: The Unauthorized Life and Times of Stephen Roman

Elizabeth Power is an accountant in Ajax, Ontario.

This book—an account of the life of Stephen Roman, of Denison Mines,
and of the later empire—presents a fascinating story that is well
worth reading. Its portrayal of the freewheeling, conniving, and at best
amoral world of the mining-promotion fraternity is insightful and
gripping. The character of Stephen Roman, while not endearing,
represents an accurate prototype of what is required to rise from
obscurity to the height of the business world. Roman’s single-minded
ruthlessness, his propensity for and enjoyment of risk-taking, and his
ability to adapt morality to the situation were among the traits that
led to the success that was admired by his peers.

But addiction to the long shot and the ego to pursue it, while leading
to great success, may also lead to great falls. Perhaps the lesson here
is that the personality that builds an empire is not the one to sustain
the success.

McKay attacks any residual myths that depict Roman as a hero or a god.
While we might be impressed by the empire, we are not allowed to
overlook the price paid by others to build and sustain it. The
partnership of Canadian politicians in furthering Roman’s wealth and
empire is clearly documented and another fascinating element of the
story.

This well-written, readable book will be particularly enjoyed by those
interested in Canadian history, political science, or business.