Episode 657: The Tale Of The Onion King

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This show originally ran on October 14, 2015.

Vince Kosuga was an onion farmer back in the 1930s. A pretty successful one. But farming wasn't enough for him. He also liked to make bets on wheat and other crops.

Then he had an idea: Why not try his luck with the crop he knew best?

Planet Money #657: The Tale Of The Onion King The Tale Of The Onion King Listen · 16:23 16:23

Today on the show, how Kosuga made millions on the greatest onion trade the world had ever seen. His scheme to corner the market got so out of hand that it eventually caused the Chicago River to flow not just with water but with onions. Onion farming hasn't been the same since.

Music: "Waiting All Day" and "Roadhouse Fight."

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