Sombart clearly was exaggerating, but the role of Jews in California was highly significant.

FORBES: California And The Jews

However some, like the French Jewish activist Gilles-William Goldnadel, have accused him of exaggerating his role in the work.

BBC: Inspirational French writer Stephane Hessel dies at 95

And this week John Thain, Merrill Lynch's former top dog, took a first stab at rehabilitation by accusing Bank of America of underplaying its role, and exaggerating his, in concealing Merrill's big losses and bonuses after agreeing to buy the firm last September.

ECONOMIST: They used to walk on water. Now they are back from the dead