Swiss Re is the oldest existing reinsurance company in the world. Using this traditional company as an example, this book introduces the fascinating history of a largely unknown branch of the insurance industry to the public. Reports on natural disasters and man-made catastrophes have increasingly taken center stage in media coverage lately. As this trend continues, reinsurers are also stepping forward with technical analyses of earthquakes, hurricanes, tsunamis, nuclear accidents, and global climate change. But what lies behind this industry, which can contribute billions to the reconstruction of destroyed cities and industrial facilities, insure massive amounts against societal aging, and also ensure that the household policy of each individual is covered? Peter Borscheid, Da.