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Why So Many American Department Stores are Going Out of Business.

Financial reporter John Rothchild. Rothchild's new book, "Going For Broke," is the story of Canadian financier Robert Campeau ("camp-o" with a long "o"). In the space of a few years, Campeau became one of the most powerful retailers in the world, having bought Brooks Brothers, Ann Taylor, Bonwit Teller, Jordan Marsh, Bloomingdales, and Filene's. He acquired his empire with seven billion dollars in loans and junk bonds, and when his empire collapsed, 50,000 creditors were after him and 8,000 workers lost their jobs. (The book's published by Simon & Schuster).

22:55

Other segments from the episode on December 13, 1991

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, December 13, 1991: Interview with John Rothchild; Interview with William Potter; Review of the film "Hook."

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