When I was an undergrad there were only two subjects I considering majoring in: history and mathematics; I chose the latter, but have continued to enjoy the former. In today’s Wall Street Journal, Jason Zweig begins with a reference to the possible NYSE Euronext and Deutsche Börse AG merger, but quickly moves on to provide us with a bit of history on the NYSE and the role of exchanges.

Jason is an excellent writer, and I very much enjoy his columns, and today’s is no exception. In a fairly crisp manner he discusses some background on the exchange and how the they have evolved. It’s definitely worth your while to have a look.