From ancient Babylonian lease tablets to tomorrow’s AI-powered property bots, landlords have shaped where—and how—we live for 4,000 years. This deep-dive traces the global rise of landlordism, dissects the psychology of good (and bad) owners, and forecasts how automation could upend renting in Hastings, Minnesota and beyond. Whether you’re a tenant, investor, or curious historian, discover the surprising twists behind the people who hold the keys to our homes.