The most recent financial crisis is a stark reminder that boom and bust remain a permanent part of life. Whilst not every recession triggers a financial crisis, every financial crisis triggers a deep recession. Indeed, had it not been for the massive intervention of central banks around the world, the recent financial crisis might have led to a depression as in the 1930s. Understanding what makes banks successful;why banks fail and what it takes to maintain financial stability, is not just a nice-to-know for a few banking historians. It is vital knowledge for bankers, supervisors and policy makers. For more than 20 years now, the European Association for Banking and Financial History (EABH) e.V. promotes and supports historic research to enhance our understanding of the financial industry. Learning about the past will not provide a checklist for future challenges, but will help to avoid repeating mistakes. Never has banking history been more important than today!