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Paper World Influence explores the profound impact of something often overlooked: paper. From its origins in ancient China, paper drove cultural, intellectual, and economic shifts across the globe. The book illuminates how paper's creation was a key technological innovation, leading to the preservation of knowledge that shaped legal systems, religious doctrines, and scientific advancements. Paper's affordability and portability democratized access to information, enabling the spread of ideas and challenging established power structures. The book traces paper's journey, beginning with ancient papermaking techniques in China and its dissemination along the Silk Road. Subsequent chapters examine paper's role in pivotal moments like the rise of printing and the scientific revolution. By examining its influence on education, global commerce, and communication history, Paper World Influence provides a comprehensive look at paper's transformative power. The book argues that paper is not merely a passive tool but an active agent in shaping human history and global civilization.

Toilet Paper Secrets unveils the surprising global history of personal hygiene after defecation. Far from a trivial topic, the book explores diverse cultural practices and materials used throughout history, revealing insights into cultural values, technological advancements, and the human body. For instance, ancient Romans used a sponge on a stick, while islanders used coconut husks. Understanding these past practices helps us view current approaches to sanitation and sustainability. The book begins by establishing a historical context, examining pre-toilet paper methods across various cultures. It then transitions to the advent of commercially produced toilet paper, charting its evolution and ubiquity. It also examines the social and environmental consequences of widespread toilet paper consumption. This narrative emphasizes human ingenuity and adaptation across time and cultures, providing a unique lens on social development. This exploration adopts a global perspective, integrating environmental and social considerations. The book draws from archaeological findings, historical texts, anthropological studies, and scientific research. By connecting the history of toilet paper to fields like environmental science and public health, the pages of Toilet Paper Secrets prompt readers to reconsider their relationship with a seemingly mundane object.

Of late, historians have been realising that South Asia and Europe have more in common than a particular strand in the historiography on'the rise of the West'would have us believe. In both world regions a plurality of languages, religions, and types of belonging by birth was in premodern times matched by a plurality of legal systems and practices. This volume describes case-by-case the points where law and social diversity intersected.

From the author of A Splendid Exchange comes a remarkable history of media - from the alphabet to the internet - that examines how it has shaped human society over millennia. In Masters of the Word, Bernstein chronicles the development of the technology of human communication, or media, starting with the birth of writing thousands of years ago in Mesopotamia. In Sumer, and then Egypt, this revolutionary tool allowed rulers to extend their control far and wide, giving rise to the world's first empires. When Phoenician traders took their alphabet to Greece, literacy's first boom led to the birth of drama and democracy. In Rome, it helped spell the downfall of Empire. As Bernstein illustrates, new communication technologies - from the clay tablet to the radio - have all had a profound effect on human society. But it's not just the technologies themselves that have changed the world, it's access to them. Medieval scriptoria and vernacular bibles gave rise to religious dissent, but it was only when the combination of cheaper paper and Gutenberg's printing press drove down the cost of books by some 97% that the dynamite of Reformation was lit. The Industrial Revolution brought the telegraph and the steam driven printing press, allowing information to move faster than ever before and to reach an even larger audience. But along with radio and television, these new technologies were more easily exploited by the powerful, as seen in Germany, the Soviet Union, and even Rwanda, where radio incited genocide. With the rise of carbon duplicates (Russian samizdat), photocopying (the Pentagon Papers), and the internet and mobile phones (the Arab Spring), access has again spread and the world is both more connected, and more free, than ever before.

Silk Road Stories explores the historical significance of the Silk Road, highlighting it as more than just an ancient trade route. The book reveals how this network facilitated an unprecedented exchange of culture, technology, and ideas between the East and West. It examines the profound impact of the Silk Road on globalization, cultural diffusion, and cross-cultural understanding, demonstrating its relevance to contemporary international relations. Intriguingly, the spread of Buddhism from India to China and the transmission of paper-making techniques from China to the West exemplify the route's transformative power. The book begins by establishing the foundational aspects of the Silk Road, including its geographical scope, key trade commodities, and diverse participating cultures, before delving into specific instances of cultural and technological exchange. It emphasizes the economic interdependence fostered by the Silk Road, while also addressing the conflicts that arose from increased interaction. The book concludes by analyzing the Silk Road's lasting legacy and its implications for modern globalization, offering a balanced and insightful perspective on this pivotal period in world history.

This book is the first to recover and analyse at length the extent, complexity, and character of African American responses to the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970).Far from having only marginal significance, the Nigerian Civil War collided at full velocity with the conflicting discourses and ideas by which black Americans sought to understand their place in the United States and the world in the late 1960s. Black civil rights leaders offered their service as agents of direct diplomacy during the conflict, seeking to preserve Nigerian unity; grassroots activists organised food-drives, concerts, and awareness campaigns in support of humanitarian aid for victims of famine in the warzone; while other black activists warned of an imminent genocide and called for an united response from black Americans. Drawing on private papers, activist literature, government records, and especially the black press, it charts the way the civil war shaped, as well as challenged, the worldview of African Americans regarding black internationalist solidarities, territorial sovereignty and political viability, humanitarian compassion, and the political trajectory of postcolonial Africa.With a chronological approach, this study is the ideal resource for all those interested in the Nigerian Civil War and the history of black internationalism.

The Dominicans in the Americas and the Philippines (c. 1500–c. 1820) is part of a renewal of interest in the global history of the Dominican Order. Many of the essays were carefully selected among some of the papers presented at the III International Conference on the History of the Order of Preachers in the Americas, a gathering that stands in continuity with the conferences of Mexico (2013) and Bogotá (2016).This book, the contributors of which are active researchers specializing in the history of the Order of Preachers in Latin America, is organized in four parts: Women and the Order of Preachers; “Benditos Bienes”: Libraries and Material Patrimony; Missions, Devotional, and Daily Life; and The Order of Preachers and Their Writings. Contributions deal with different subfields including art history, gender studies, history of the book, and intellectual history more broadly. Additionally, it contains a chapter examining the historiography of the Order of Preachers in Latin America.Covering the time range from 1510 to the early nineteenth century, the book fills a gap in the historiography of the Order of Preachers in the Americas, especially in English-language scholarly literature. Students of Latin American history, the history of Christianity, and the history of global Catholicism will surely find the volume to be of great interest.

Why does 1919 deserve further study and debate a hundred years later? What lessons for global history may we learn from the world order created at the end of the Great War? Drawing insight from the global turn of the past several decades that has forced us to reconsider the most important world events and processes since the French Revolution and especially the growing interest in World War I as a global conflict that extended far beyond the borders of Europe, this volume explores the global political ramifications of the treaties prepared at the Paris Peace Conference in 1919 by focusing on key topics: how the Paris Peace Conference re-shaped the geo-political configurations of the Middle East, the importance of transformations in Asia and particularly China in the immediate postwar period, the shifts in Southeastern Europe, new feminist movements in Central Europe, and the pre-history of neoliberalism.Read together, the papers demonstrate how the peace treaties signed in 1919 and 1920 marked a profound transformation on local, national, continental, and global scales.

This volume is a comparative study of the practice of impagination across different ages and civilizations. By impagination we mean the act of placing and arranging spatially textual and other information onto a material bearer that could be made of a variety of materials (papyrus, bamboo slips, palm leaf, parchment, paper, and the computer screen). This volume investigates three levels of impagination: what is the page or other unit of the material bearer, what is written or printed on it, and how is writing or print placed on it. It also examines the interrelations of two or all three of these levels. Collectively it examines the material and materiality of the page, the variety of imprints, cultural and historical conventions for impagination, interlinguistic encounters, the control of editors, scribes, publishers and readers over the page, inheritance, borrowing and innovation, economics, aesthetics and socialities of imprints and impagination, and the relationship of impagination to philology. This volume supplements studies on mise en page and layout – an important subject of codicology – first by including non-codex writings, second by taking a closer look at the page or other unit than at the codex (or book), and third by its aspiration to adopt a globally comparative approach. This volume brings together for comparison vast geographical realms of learning, including Europe, China, Tibet, Korea, Japan and the Near Eastern and European communities in which the Hebrew Bible was transmitted. This comparison is significant, for Europe, China, and India all developed great traditions of learning which came into intensive contact. The contributions to this volume are firmly rooted in local cultures and together address global, comparative themes that are significant for multiple disciplines, such as intellectual and cultural history of knowledge (both humanistic and scientific), global history, literary and media studies, aesthetics, and studies of material culture, among other fields.

Studies on Ottoman Science and Culture brings together eleven articles by distinguished historian Ekmeleddin İhsanoğlu.The book addresses multiple issues related to the histories of science and culture during the Ottoman era. Most of the articles contained in this volume were the first contributions to their respective topics, and they continue to provoke discussion and debate amongst academics to this day. The first volume of the author's collected papers that appeared in the Variorum Collected Studies (2004) dispelled the negative opinions towards Ottoman science asserted by scholars of the previous generation. In this new volume, the author continues to explore and develop the paradigm of scientific activities and cultural interactions both within and beyond the Ottoman Empire. One of the topics examined is the attitude of Islamic scholars towards revolutionary notions in Western science, including Copernican heliocentrism and Darwin's theory of evolution.This book will appeal to scholars and students of Ottoman history, as well as those interested in the history of science and cultural history. (CS1098).

The Great War was a turning point of the twentieth century, giving birth to a new, modern, and industrial approach to warfare that changed the world forever. The remembrance, awareness, and knowledge of the conflict and, most importantly, of those who participated and were affected by it, altered from country to country, and in some cases has been almost entirely forgotten.New research strategies have emerged to help broaden our understanding of the First World War. Multidisciplinary approaches have been applied to material culture and conflict landscapes, from archive sources analysis and aerial photography to remote sensing, GIS and field research. Working within the context of a material and archival understanding of war, this book combines papers from different study fields that present interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approaches towards researching the First World War and its legacies, with particular concentration on the central and eastern European theatres of war.

History & Historiography: From Ancient to Modern World is entitled to serve as a bundle of various research articles and research papers. The book concentrates mainly on the topics which, we think, will be valuable to apprehend the various research areas deeply and more profoundly. This book also includes such topics that are mainly related to our glorious history and the development of our ideas about the past. The present volume is the first in highlighting articles and essays written by young scholars. These young scholars are more way than a historian. They have written on the topics with respect to the fields of specialization, really agreed and sent in their contributions. This collection precisely focuses precisely on Indian and European History. Although there is a vast literature available on the subject the need to put forth the mindset of young historians has been long felt. Nevertheless, it incorporates a wide range of fascinating information, which will to a greater extend appeal to the general reader as well.

The Nile Expedition of 1860–1863 was one of the most important exploratory expeditions made in the nineteenth century. The long-debated question of the location of the source of the Nile was answered (despite continuing arguments) and the venture had important historical consequences. Earlier accounts of the expedition have assumed James Augustus Grant to have been no more than the loyal second-in-command to John Hanning Speke, the leader. This new edition of Grant's 1864 book, A Walk across Africa, provides the opportunity to re-examine his role. The original text has been fully annotated with explanatory notes and also supplemented by extracts from the very remarkable detailed day-to-day journal which Grant kept. Even more unusually, this edition includes reproductions of the whole visual record which he made consisting of 147 watercolours and sketches. This was the first ever visual record of large parts of East Africa and the Upper Nile Valley region. These documentary and illustrative materials have been drawn from the extensive collection of Grant's papers now in the care of the National Library of Scotland. The Library has co-operated in the preparation of this volume to make possible its special features.Grant emerges as a much more impressive and important figure than has previously been recognised. He was a trained scientist and his narrative is a well-organised perspective on the expedition and its activities. His own growing understanding of Africa and of Africans becomes apparent and helps to explain his later activities.The editor provides a context to the expedition and its results and this includes a new approach to the understanding of the Nile source problem by exposing the credulity of the way many previous commentators have used Ptolemy's information and also by suggesting that the problem should be approached in the light of geological and geomorphological as well as historical information. The Introduction in addition discusses Grant's work in the light of the development of the academic understanding of the history of Africa and of European involvement in the region.

Sources and Methods in Histories of Colonialism provides an in-depth study of the relationships between archives, knowledge and power. Exploring a diverse range of examples and surveying the now substantial scholarly literatures on the functions and scope of the ‘imperial archive', it facilitates a deeper understanding of the challenges of working with a range of specific source genres within imperial and colonial archives. Covering the late eighteenth century to the present day and drawing on material from a range of modern empires including those established by Britain, France, the Netherlands, Spain and the United States, chapters discuss themes such as the emergence of photography as an archival tool, the use of oral history in histories of colonialism and the ways in which the state informs the archive and vice versa. This book considers the ways in which newer ways of thinking about the past have challenged more traditional views of ‘the archive', provoking questions about what archives are and where their conceptual, geographical and chronological boundaries lie.Examining a wide selection of source material including government papers, censuses, petitions and case files and providing both an overarching introduction to the subject and close analysis of specific case studies, this book will be essential reading for students of imperial and colonial history.

Here is a one-stop research resource on the assembly and manufacturing plants on the U.S.-Mexico border, termed Maquiladoras. A combination bibliography and directory, Las Maquiladoras focuses on various aspects of the American-owned companies that are located in Mexico and employ Mexican citizens.While the thrust of the items included in the select bibliography is on the industrial, commercial, and financial aspects of the phenomenon, including the actions of multinational corporations and their investments, there are also entries dealing with the matter of labor, United States and Mexican governmental undertakings, legal and urban problems, regional development and planning, population, technology transfer, sociocultural considerations, and the interdisciplinary field of border studies, which is concerned with a host of topics ranging form health and education to urban geography, economic matters, and the cultural impact on border residents of the establishment of maquiladoras. The impact of economic development, industrialization, and urbanization on border culture is also reflected.In the directory, readers can locate names and addresses of local, state, and federal level government agencies in the U.S. and Mexico; information centers; labor unions; professional associations; and research centers.The bibliography, comprised of books and book chapters, pamphlets, conference papers and proceedings, government publications, scholarly dissertations, videotapes of television programs, and magazine, journal, and newspaper articles, will be an indispensable tool for business people, bankers, journalists, government experts, economists, students, and librarians. The current interest in border studies and in Mexico, in particular, will make this unique book especially useful to scholars of folklore, geography, history, labor, political science, and sociology.Special features in the book include a list of experts in a variety of disciplines and a listing of U.S. and Mexican cities and towns on opposite sides of the border. Because the number of maquiladoras is expected to continue expanding rapidly, this volume should remain a highly valuable resource.

The papers presented in this collection offer a wide range of cases, from Asia, Africa and the Americas, and broadly cover the last two centuries, in which commodities have led to the consolidation of a globalised economy and society – forging this out of distinctive local experiences of cultivation and production, and regional circuits of trade.

Would British scientists really test sarin nerve poison on young volunteers and tell them it was research for a cure for colds? Would they really release Ecoli in Swindon and Southampton to try out germ warfare techniques? Even 50 years on, no-one's telling the whole story. Conspiracies and cover-ups, real or imagined, have shaped our world. Now leaked cables and declassified papers are rewriting the history of our times. More information must be good, but how do you tell truth from fiction?In this fresh, readable look at 50 conspiracy theories, Ian Shircore cuts through the fog and misinformation to deliver a balanced analysis of the key facts behind unsettling suspicions that litter our recent past. Today's new evidence - from WikiLeaks, freedom of information requests and declassified archives - has solved some classic mysteries. Yet it raises more questions than ever about the assassinations of the 1960s, the dirty secrets of the late 20th century and the earth-shaking events of recent years. Once you've seen what WikiLeaks has revealed about the radioactive poisoning of Alexander Litvinenko, you won't be so sure about the British secret service. Once you've weighed the evidence yourself, you may well decide there was a Second Yorkshire Ripper, that cricketing hero Bob Woolmer was murdered and that rock icon Jim Morrison's death in Paris was anything but straightforward.

Pierpont Stackpole was a Boston lawyer who in January 1918 became aide to Lieutenant General Hunter Liggett, soon to be commander of the first American corps in France. Stackpole's diary, published here for the first time, is a major eyewitness account of the American Expeditionary Forces'experience on the Western Front, offering an insider's view into the workings of Liggett's commands, his day-to-day business, and how he orchestrated his commands in trying and confusing situations. Hunter Liggett did not fit John J. Pershing's concept of the trim and energetic officer, but Pershing entrusted to him a corps and then an army command. Liggett assumed leadership of the U.S. First Army in mid-October of 1918, and after reorganizing, reinforcing, and resting, the battle-weary troops broke through the German lines in a fourth attack at the Meuse-Argonne—accomplishing what Pershing had failed to do in three previous attempts. The victory paved the way to armistice on November 11. Liggett has long been a shadowy figure in the development of the American high command. He was “Old Army,” a veteran of Indian wars who nevertheless kept abreast of changes in warfare and more than other American officers was ready for the novelties of 1914–1918. Because few of his papers have survived, the diary of his aide—who rode in the general's staff car as Liggett unburdened himself about fellow generals and their sometimes abysmal tactical notions—provides especially valuable insights into command within the AEF. Stackpole's diary also sheds light on other figures of the war, presenting a different view of the controversial Major General Clarence Edwards than has recently been recorded and relating the general staff's attitudes about the flamboyant aviation figure Billy Mitchell. General Liggett built the American army in France, and the best measure of his achievement is this diary of his aide. That record stands here as a fascinating and authentic look at the Great War.

This is the first volume of papers devoted to an examination of the relationship between mental health/illness and the construction and experience of space. This historical analysis with contributions from leading experts will enlighten and intrigue in equal measure. The first rigorous scholarly analysis of its kind in book form, it will be of particular interest to the history, psychiatry and architecture communities.

Japanese Time explores the deep connection between a nation's cultural identity and its sense of time, focusing on the intriguing evolution of Japanese calendars. From ancient lunar cycles borrowed from China to the adoption of the Gregorian calendar during the Meiji-era, the book highlights the adaptation, resistance, and cultural negotiations that have shaped Japan's historical evolution. Early Sino-Japanese relations, indigenous religious practices, and a centralized bureaucratic state all played a crucial role in the implementation of calendrical decrees. The book argues that Japan's shifting calendars reflect a continuous tension between internal cultural preservation and external pressures for modernization and standardization. Japanese Time emphasizes that the adoption of the Gregorian calendar during the Meiji-era was not necessarily a complete break from the past, as traditional cultural patterns persisted. The book progresses chronologically and thematically, beginning with the fundamental concepts of lunar and lunisolar calendars and concluding with an analysis of the long-term implications of calendar reform on Japanese identity in a globalized world. The book examines the influence of Chinese calendrical science on early Japanese society, the unique Japanese adaptations within the traditional calendar, and the political and social upheavals surrounding the Meiji-era adoption of the Gregorian calendar. By examining historical documents, government records, diaries, and literature, this book offers a comprehensive examination of Japanese calendars, considering their technical aspects and broader cultural, social, and political implications.

'Time Capsules'explores the captivating world of intentional historical preservation, focusing on vessels buried to communicate with future generations. These caches, filled with carefully selected artifacts, offer unique insights into past societies, revealing their values, hopes, and fears. The book examines how these deliberate burials evolved from rudimentary practices to technologically advanced projects, driven by a growing desire to commemorate progress, especially during the rise of world expositions. Understanding the historical context and motivations behind these capsules allows us to decode the cultural narratives embedded within them. The book argues that these capsules offer uncensored glimpses into the past, surpassing traditional historical accounts by providing direct, unedited testimony. For example, the selection of specific objects reflects a culture's priorities and worldview. Each chapter introduces the concept of time capsules, tracing their origins and motivations, before delving into specific case studies from around the world, including wartime projects and personal legacies. By analyzing the contents of these capsules, the book uncovers nuanced details about daily life, technological advancements, and societal values, offering a unique perspective for history enthusiasts and researchers. The book's approach is fact-based and accessible, avoiding sensationalism while focusing on rigorous interpretation of historical preservation efforts. It progresses by exploring the evolution of time capsules, analyzing their contents, and considering the ethical implications of opening and interpreting them.

Halloween Origins explores the captivating journey of Halloween, revealing its transformation from ancient Celtic roots to a global phenomenon. The book traces the evolution of Samhain, a pagan festival marked by rituals and beliefs, into the modern celebration of All Hallows'Eve. It highlights how customs like wearing costumes originated not just from playful intent, but also from the need to ward off wandering spirits. The book examines the Christianization of pagan practices and the transatlantic journey of Halloween traditions to North America, where they underwent further adaptation. Halloween Origins also offers a fresh perspective on the commercialization of Halloween, exploring debates surrounding cultural appropriation and authenticity. It utilizes diverse sources, including folklore archives and contemporary ethnographic studies, to present a nuanced understanding of this continually evolving holiday. Structured chronologically, the book begins with pre-Christian Celtic traditions and progresses through the Christianization period, transatlantic adaptations, and modern commercial influences. This approach provides a comprehensive overview, making it valuable for anyone interested in the cultural and historical significance of Halloween.

French Calendar explores the rise and fall of the French Republican Calendar, a radical attempt to redefine time itself during the French Revolution. Driven by Enlightenment ideals and a desire for a secular state, the calendar sought to erase religious and royalist influences by restructuring the measurement of time. Intriguingly, it featured ten-day weeks called décades and replaced traditional saint's days with celebrations of agricultural tools, illustrating the Revolution's emphasis on reason and practicality. The book details the philosophical motivations, the calendar's structure, and the reasons for its ultimate failure after only twelve years. It examines how this bold experiment in social change impacted daily life, addressing popular resistance and the challenges of imposing such sweeping reforms. The narrative unfolds chapter by chapter, from the intellectual origins of the calendar to its social impact and eventual demise. By analyzing the calendar's failure, French Calendar offers valuable insights into the complexities of implementing radical social change and the enduring power of tradition. It highlights the importance of considering practical implications and understanding the social context when introducing large-scale reforms, a lesson that resonates even in contemporary society.

First Cities explores the dawn of urban life, examining how humans transitioned from nomadic existence to settled urbanism in regions like Mesopotamia and the Yellow River Valley. The book investigates the environmental and socio-political factors that shaped these early cities, highlighting innovations in urban planning and social organization. Intriguingly, the shift to urban living wasn't just about settlement; it fundamentally restructured human society, impacting social hierarchies and resource allocation. The book progresses systematically, first analyzing the environmental conditions that enabled the rise of cities, such as fertile river valleys. It then presents detailed case studies of early urban centers like Uruk and Erlitou, exploring their layouts, architecture, and governance. By combining archaeological evidence, textual sources, and comparative studies, First Cities offers a comprehensive look at the challenges and legacies of these nascent metropolises.

Birthday Rituals explores the captivating history and diverse cultural traditions of birthday celebrations worldwide. Uncover the surprising origins behind customs like cake and candles, which weren't always part of the festivities. Initially, birthday observances in ancient civilizations such as Rome and Egypt were predominantly reserved for rulers and deities, highlighting the religious and astrological importance of birth dates. The book progresses by tracing the evolution of these celebrations and revealing how they reflect societal values, historical influences, and human connections. The book delves into specific birthday customs from around the world, from smashing piñatas in Latin America to giving lucky red envelopes in Chinese traditions. These practices reinforce social connections and celebrate individual achievements. Furthermore, Birthday Rituals investigates the commercialization of birthdays, examining its impact on the authenticity and meaning of these modern celebrations. By drawing from historical texts, folklore, and sociological research, this book offers a nuanced understanding of birthday rituals, making it valuable for anyone curious about the history of birthdays and cultural celebrations.

Sumerian Calendar explores the origins of timekeeping with the first recorded calendar system developed in Mesopotamia. This world history book reveals how profoundly the Sumerian calendar, with its lunar cycles and adjustments for the solar year, influenced agriculture, religious festivals, and administration within Sumerian society. Intriguingly, this early system laid the groundwork for calendars still in use today, highlighting the Sumerians'deep understanding of astronomy. The book examines the calendar's structure, its societal integration, and its lasting legacy, drawing on cuneiform texts and archaeological findings. Furthermore, it traces the calendar's influence on later civilizations like the Babylonians and Assyrians, and its connections to Hebrew and Greek calendars. This approach combines detailed calendar analysis with its social and cultural significance. Organized to guide readers, the book first introduces the basics, then explores its use in Sumerian life, and finally, traces its influence on subsequent cultures.

Etruscan Time unveils the mysteries of the Etruscan calendar, a sophisticated timekeeping system in pre-Roman Italy that significantly influenced the Roman calendar. The book explores how the Etruscans managed time through a lunar-solar calendar, integrating festival cycles and methods for tracking time's passage. It challenges the traditional view that Roman timekeeping was wholly original, demonstrating instead a cultural inheritance enriched over centuries. Intriguingly, the Etruscans, who flourished from roughly 900 to 27 BC, left a fragmented legacy that requires piecing together archaeological evidence and comparative analysis with other ancient calendars. The book initially introduces the basic principles of ancient calendars and the challenges of reconciling lunar and solar cycles. Subsequent chapters delve into the structure of the Etruscan year, examining the names and sequence of months, the connection between the calendar and religious festivals, and the mechanisms of timekeeping. This approach reveals how specific dates held importance in Etruscan religious practices, offering insights into their cultural and intellectual landscape. The book culminates in a detailed analysis of the Etruscan calendar's influence on the early Roman calendar, highlighting elements demonstrably adopted or adapted, thus underscoring the Etruscans'lasting impact on world history.

'Messages In Stone'explores how ancient cultures used inscriptions, tombstones, and petroglyphs to communicate vital information about their belief systems, historical events, and daily lives. These seemingly static objects offer a unique window into the minds of our ancestors, reshaping our understanding of world history. The decipherment of ancient scripts, like hieroglyphs, allows us to unlock secrets of the past, while the symbolic language of funerary art provides insights into social hierarchies and beliefs about the afterlife. The book examines the narrative power of rock art, uncovering ancient methods of storytelling.'Messages In Stone'progresses by establishing a historical and archaeological context, then delving into specific case studies, such as the Rosetta Stone and Native American petroglyph sites. By analyzing these diverse sources, the book offers a comparative framework for understanding the broader significance of these messages and emphasizing their ongoing relevance in contemporary society for cultural heritage.

Historical Timelines offers a sweeping exploration of world history, emphasizing the interconnectedness of events from ancient civilizations to the modern era. The book argues that timelines are indispensable tools for understanding historical data, allowing readers to visualize complex sequences and grasp the relationships between pivotal moments. It highlights key political, social, economic, and technological developments, showing how actions in one era can trigger consequences in seemingly unrelated areas. For example, the book explores how the rise and fall of ancient empires like Rome had lasting impacts on subsequent European history. The book progresses chronologically, beginning with ancient civilizations and moving through the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the Industrial Revolution, and the World Wars, before culminating in an examination of the Cold War, globalization, and contemporary challenges. What sets this book apart is its emphasis on visually representing historical data through timelines and graphical aids, making complex information accessible to a broad audience. This approach helps readers appreciate the lasting impact of key historical moments and the intricate web of interconnected events that have shaped our world.

Aztec Time explores how the Aztec civilization meticulously tracked time using a dual-calendar system, deeply entwined with their religious observances and agricultural practices. This system, comprised of the 365-day solar Xiuhpohualli and the 260-day ritual Tonalpohualli, dictated not only the timing of ceremonies but also agricultural cycles and even warfare. The Aztecs'sophisticated timekeeping provides a window into their worldview, showcasing their ability to integrate spiritual beliefs with practical necessities. The book uniquely examines the Aztec calendar as more than just a timekeeping device, presenting it as a framework that structured their entire society and reflected their relationship with the natural world. For instance, the convergence of the two calendars every 52 years marked a period of great cosmological significance. Using archaeological findings, ethnohistorical accounts, and archaeoastronomy, Aztec Time presents a comprehensive overview, beginning with the components of the calendar and progressing through its religious significance, influence on social hierarchies, and its broader legacy in Mesoamerican studies. The arguments are supported by diverse evidence, offering insights into ancient cultures and the development of complex systems of knowledge. By understanding the Aztec calendar, readers gain a deeper appreciation for how this Mesoamerican civilization shaped its world.

Medieval Markets explores how the exchange of goods shaped medieval societies, economies, and urban landscapes. It delves into the daily operations of these marketplaces, highlighting the roles of merchants, artisans, and the goods traded. These markets weren't just about economics; they were social hubs that fueled urban growth by attracting migration and influencing town planning. Intriguingly, the book reveals how markets fostered specialization, transforming rudimentary settlements into bustling centers of medieval life. The book examines markets'influence on social mobility, cultural exchange, and wealth distribution, challenging the view of the Middle Ages as a static, agrarian society. Medieval Markets is structured in three parts, progressing from the fundamentals of market operations to their impact on urban development and broader societal implications. By emphasizing the social dimensions of economic activity, the book provides a nuanced understanding of how markets functioned as social and cultural hubs, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in medieval history, economic history, and urban studies.

Calendar Wars reveals that calendars, seemingly fixed, have been battlegrounds shaped by religion, politics, and the desire for order. The book explores how calendar reform ignited conflicts, highlighting the religious underpinnings of calendar systems, the impact of science on timekeeping, and the pursuit of a unified calendar. Calendars are not just tools; they reflect belief systems and power assertions, influencing social and economic activities. For instance, the adoption of the Gregorian calendar faced resistance from various religious factions, illustrating deep-seated cultural and religious attachments to existing timekeeping methods. The book argues that calendar reform is a negotiation of power, tradition, and worldviews, impacting society and shaping the modern world. It begins by establishing calendars'foundational role in ancient civilizations, then examines their evolution through religious conflict, scientific advancements, and attempts at universal standardization. Calendar Wars progresses to explore contemporary issues like daylight saving time and alternative calendar proposals, offering a fresh perspective on understanding broader historical trends through the lens of calendar reform.

'Titanic Story'offers a comprehensive exploration of the RMS Titanic's ill-fated voyage, delving into the intricate details of its construction, the human experiences onboard, and the disaster's lasting impact. The book meticulously reconstructs the events leading up to and following the sinking, highlighting the Edwardian era's societal aspirations embodied by the ship. It emphasizes how the tragedy prompted critical re-evaluations of maritime safety, unveiling the confluence of hubris, negligence, and systemic inequalities that contributed to the disaster. The narrative progresses chronologically, commencing with the ship's design and construction, then unfolding into the passenger experience and the harrowing moments of the sinking and rescue efforts. Survivor accounts and historical documents enrich the narrative, providing a balanced perspective on the events. The book analyzes the aftermath, including inquiries and regulatory reforms, demonstrating how lessons learned from the Titanic disaster continue to influence modern maritime safety.'Titanic Story'uniquely interweaves technical details, personal stories, and historical analysis, appealing to readers interested in World History and maritime disasters. By connecting to fields like engineering and sociology, the book provides a holistic view, avoiding sensationalism and offering a well-researched account that challenges romanticized notions. It provides valuable insights into early 20th-century society and the enduring legacy of this nautical disaster.

River Civilizations explores the profound impact of the Nile, Tigris-Euphrates, and Indus rivers on the rise of early complex societies. It examines how these waterways shaped agricultural practices, social structures, and political systems in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley Civilization. The book argues that these rivers were instrumental in enabling large-scale irrigation, which led to surplus food production and population growth. Furthermore, these river systems facilitated trade and communication, fostering the exchange of ideas and technologies among different regions. The book progresses by first introducing the unique geographical characteristics of each river valley. It then analyzes agricultural and technological innovations used to harness the rivers'power, like advanced irrigation systems. Finally, it delves into the resulting social, political, and cultural transformations, including urbanization and the development of writing. This approach highlights the interplay between environmental factors and human agency, challenging deterministic views of societal development. By presenting a comparative and interdisciplinary perspective, River Civilizations moves beyond traditional narratives. It emphasizes the agency of ancient peoples in adapting to and transforming their environments, offering valuable insights into sustainable development, water management, and the intricate relationship between humanity and the natural world. The book's exploration of early civilizations provides a historical perspective on modern challenges like water rights and infrastructure.

Medieval Time explores how Europeans in the Middle Ages measured and organized time, revealing the surprising influence of calendars on trade, governance, and religious life. Early medieval timekeeping was fragmented, with local calendars tied to agricultural cycles or saints'days. Intriguingly, the need for synchronized timekeeping grew with the rise of the Church and expanding trade networks, pushing for standardized calendars that could coordinate everything from religious festivals to market days. The book examines the move towards standardized calendars and its impact on medieval society. We learn how the Church played a vital role in promoting the Julian calendar and reforming timekeeping to align with religious events like Easter. The book progresses chronologically, beginning with diverse early systems, then analyzing standardization efforts by monastic orders and rulers. It concludes by assessing the lasting impact of medieval timekeeping on our modern understanding of time.

'Roman Reforms'explores the fascinating evolution of the Roman calendar, a system deeply intertwined with Roman society, political history, and even religious practices. From its early lunar-based iterations to Julius Caesar's pivotal Julian calendar reform, the book highlights how timekeeping influenced and reflected the Roman world. Intriguingly, the early Roman calendar required frequent'intercalation,'or the insertion of extra days, to align with the solar year, showcasing the challenges of early timekeeping. The book argues that Caesar's reforms were more than just technical adjustments; they were a reflection of Rome's growing imperial power and cultural influence. By examining primary sources and archaeological evidence,'Roman Reforms'traces the calendar's journey from a somewhat chaotic system to the foundation for the Gregorian calendar we use today. Each chapter progresses chronologically, starting with the limitations of the lunar calendar, then analyzing the political climate surrounding Caesar's changes, and finally assessing the lasting global impact of the Julian calendar.

'Ancient Empires'explores the secrets behind the rise, dominance, and decline of history's most influential ancient civilizations. Moving beyond simple political and military narratives, this book examines the crucial roles of social, economic, and cultural elements in shaping imperial power. A central argument highlights the importance of an empire's ability to adapt and innovate, whether through military strategies, administrative systems, or economic policies. For example, the Roman Empire's sophisticated infrastructure and legal system allowed for efficient resource management and control over vast territories. The book progresses from exploring foundational concepts like imperial ideology and resource management to detailed case studies of Rome, Egypt, China, and Mesopotamia. Each case study analyzes the empire's unique characteristics, expansion methods, internal dynamics, and reasons for decline or transformation. Did you know that ancient Egypt's economic strength was intimately tied to its control of the Nile and its agricultural output? Or that Mesopotamia's innovations in writing and law laid the groundwork for future civilizations? By examining these empires,'Ancient Empires'draws broader conclusions about the nature of empires and their lasting legacies. This unique approach, incorporating interdisciplinary perspectives and varied historical sources, provides a comprehensive understanding of imperial power. Instead of focusing solely on political and military history, the book considers the interplay of economic, social, and cultural factors. The book aims to provide a framework for understanding contemporary geopolitical issues and the enduring legacies of ancient empires, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in world history and the dynamics of ancient civilizations.

This book examines the history of human rights in US security imaginaries and provides a theoretical framework to explore the common-sense assumptions around US foreign relations and the universality of the human.The inability, or unwillingness, to provide fundamental freedoms is a central feature in the US presentation of postcolonial spaces as “failed” and “rogue” states: as nodes of disorder and instability that are then subject to increasingly pre-emptive pacification. While largely focused on contemporary history from the post-WWII Universal Declaration to drone war, the author critically engages with longer, entwined histories such as Westphalian mythology, humanitarian intervention, and imperial aerial policing. Bridging history, law, politics, culture, and war, the theoretical bounding of the regime of truth offers a fresh reading for those knowledgeable on human rights and/as security policy.This volume will be of value to students and scholars of American Studies/history, critical International Relations (IR), human rights history, and those interested in conceptions of liberty and US foreign relations.

This book presents the history of the British Empire as the “Bridge” for creating a Global History, especially emphasizing its connections with Asian regions. The United Kingdom ruled most of the world in the nineteenth century. Its influence spread around the globe in various forms – in the white settlements such as those in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand (Dominions), in Asian and African regions represented by present-day India, in colonies acquired by military force (Dependencies), and in other regions under its economic influence through trade and investment (the informal empire). Thus, the British Empire played a key role in nineteenth-century globalization. There are many books on the British Empire in English. However, no books from Asian perspectives have interpreted it as “the means used by Asian countries for their own economic development” (and as providers of “international public goods”). Along with the East Asian economic resurgence, the weight of the global system and the world economy has now largely shifted from the Atlantic world to the Asia-Pacific region, encompassing India, as well as the Pacific coast of the United States. The global depression in 2008 accelerated this trend. We now face the task of building a new interpretation of world history with a clearer understanding of this upheaval. Redrawing world history is not an easy task but a good starting point would be to analyze the mutual relationship between the British Empire and the Asian regions, and this can be done by interpreting the historical significance of the British Empire.

History Facts explores intriguing, often-overlooked aspects of world history, challenging conventional narratives. It highlights that World War I was initially expected to be brief, a far cry from its actual devastating length, and reveals that the Great Wall of China is not, in fact, visible from space with the naked eye, contrary to popular belief. The book emphasizes the significance of minor events and the crucial human element in shaping historical outcomes, providing a fresh perspective beyond standard textbook accounts. It also stresses the importance of continuous historical re-evaluation. The book begins by dismantling common historical misconceptions with factual evidence. It progresses by exploring how seemingly insignificant incidents altered the course of empires, and then brings to the forefront the personal stories of individuals who were instrumental in shaping history but are often omitted from mainstream accounts. By uncovering these hidden facets, History Facts encourages readers to question established narratives and engage with history in a more meaningful and critical way.

Resistance Fighters explores the diverse underground movements across Europe during World War II, highlighting their crucial role in undermining Axis occupation. This book examines the courage and ingenuity of ordinary citizens who risked everything to defy the Nazi regime. It delves into the multifaceted forms of resistance, from intelligence gathering and sabotage to armed struggle, revealing that resistance was far from a monolithic effort. Consider, for example, how resistance groups aided escaped prisoners, demonstrating the breadth of their activities. Understanding this diversity is key to appreciating the full scope of resistance. The book progresses chronologically and thematically, beginning with initial responses to occupation and the formation of resistance cells. It then explores key resistance activities in countries like France, Poland, Norway, and Yugoslavia, showcasing the unique challenges and strategies employed in each context. The historical analysis also emphasizes the long-term consequences of these actions, both positive and negative, in shaping post-war Europe. Examining the ideologies that fueled both collaboration and resistance, the book provides valuable insights into the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in occupied territories and the lasting impact of these movements on national identity.

Rebellion War Facts explores the critical juncture where localized dissent spirals into widespread warfare, forever changing societies and historical trajectories. The book delves into the underlying causes, pivotal events, and lasting consequences of rebellions that evolved into major wars, offering a detailed analysis of state-society relations and conflict resolution. One intriguing insight is the pivotal role of ungrieved grievances and state capacity in determining whether a rebellion succeeds, stagnates, or ignites into a larger conflict. The book provides a framework for understanding the dynamics of rebellion and war, examining historical, social, and political contexts. Through case studies like the American Revolution, the Taiping Rebellion, and the Algerian War of Independence, the author analyzes each rebellion's origins, its escalation into war, and the resulting societal changes. By comparatively analyzing diverse uprisings, Rebellion War Facts presents a unique perspective, highlighting the common threads and idiosyncratic factors influencing rebellions, all while maintaining an objective, evidence-based stance. The book progresses systematically, setting a theoretical foundation, exploring case studies, and synthesizing broader conclusions applicable to contemporary conflict resolution.

Turning Points examines pivotal moments in world history where transformative innovations reshaped societies. The book argues that human progress isn't a straight line but a series of leaps spurred by breakthroughs. For instance, the printing press didn't just spread information; it catalyzed social movements and altered political power. Similarly, agriculture's rise allowed for settled communities, leading to specialization and the development of complex civilizations. The book explores how these historical turning points are interconnected, with earlier innovations paving the way for later advancements. Structured to provide a comprehensive analysis, it begins by establishing a framework for understanding innovation as a historical force. Major sections then delve into specific turning points, such as the Renaissance era and the digital revolution, examining their pre-existing conditions, the nature of the innovation itself, and its consequences. The book offers insights into the dynamics of social change, technological advancements, and economic development, making it valuable for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the forces shaping the modern world.

'Amsterdam Tales'explores the remarkable ascent of Amsterdam from a modest settlement to a global powerhouse, focusing on its Dutch Golden Age. The book attributes this transformation to strategic location, innovative economic policies, and a culture of tolerance that attracted diverse populations. Amsterdam's intricate canal system, for instance, wasn't just for aesthetic appeal; it was a carefully engineered network that facilitated trade and transport, crucial for its economic success. The book emphasizes that Amsterdam's story offers valuable lessons on globalization and the power of liberal values. The book progresses chronologically, starting with Amsterdam's origins and its role in the Hanseatic League. It then delves into the Dutch Revolt and the city's emergence as the capital of the Dutch Republic. A significant portion is dedicated to the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and its impact on Amsterdam's growth, highlighting how the city became a haven for intellectuals and artists. Through primary sources and contemporary analysis,'Amsterdam Tales'reveals the inner workings of Amsterdam's society and economy.

'Wonders of the Past'offers a fascinating exploration of humanity's greatest historical achievements and their lasting impact on modern civilization. Through a methodical examination of archaeological evidence and historical records, the book unveils how monumental architecture, sophisticated social systems, and cultural preservation methods have shaped our understanding of human capability across different eras. The narrative progresses through three distinct yet interconnected themes, beginning with an analysis of architectural marvels like the Egyptian pyramids and Roman aqueducts. Rather than simply describing these structures, the book delves into the complex social and technological systems that made such achievements possible. This approach reveals fascinating insights into how ancient civilizations managed to organize vast workforces and develop innovative construction techniques that continue to astound modern engineers. The book's multidisciplinary approach combines historical analysis with archaeological findings and anthropological research, making it uniquely valuable for readers interested in understanding how past achievements influence contemporary society. By examining everything from Mesopotamian record-keeping systems to the preservation of cultural heritage through oral traditions, the text presents a comprehensive view of how human civilization has developed and maintained its most significant accomplishments. This careful balance of academic rigor and accessibility ensures that both casual history enthusiasts and serious scholars will find valuable insights within its pages.

'Surekha Davies invites readers to imagine the lives of historical monsters and to empathize with their often-wretched treatment.'― Science MagazineA history of how humans have created monsters out of one another—from our deepest fears—and what these monsters tell us about humanity's present and future. Monsters are central to how we think about the human condition. Join award-winning historian of science Dr. Surekha Davies as she reveals how people have defined the human in relation to everything from apes to zombies, and how they invented race, gender, and nations along the way. With rich, evocative storytelling that braids together ancient gods and generative AI, Frankenstein's monster and E.T., Humans: A Monstrous History shows how monster-making is about control: it defines who gets to count as normal. In an age when corporations increasingly see people as obstacles to profits, this book traces the long, volatile history of monster-making and charts a better path for the future. The result is a profound, effervescent, empowering retelling of the history of the world for anyone who wants to reverse rising inequality and polarization. This is not a history of monsters, but a history through monsters.

The third edition of Consumerism in World History explores the nature of consumerism and its evolution, with particular emphasis on the modern “consumer revolution” and its global scope.The book deals with crucial interpretive issues, such as whether consumerism is a natural human expression or involves other causes, the relationship between consumer apparatus (such as shops and advertising) and human needs, and the interplay between Western and other regional forms of consumerism. It covers major historical moments and changes, including the consumer revolution in Western society beginning in the 17th century and regional cultural patterns from the 19th century onward. This is a substantially revised edition, with updated suggested readings, rewritten sections on premodern consumerism in agricultural societies, and globalization and consumerism, and expanded coverage of major regions like India and Latin America.This volume is essential reading for all students of world history and will be of great value to those in business history and environmental history.

This volume offers an unparalleled range of comparative studies considering both persecution and genocide across two thousand years of history from Rome to Nazi Germany, and spanning Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.Topics covered include the persecution of religious minorities in the ancient world and late antiquity, the medieval roots of modern antisemitism, the early modern witch-hunts, the emergence of racial ideologies and their relationship to slavery, colonialism, Russian and Soviet mass deportations, the Armenian genocide, and the Holocaust. It also introduces students to significant, but less well known, episodes, such as the Albigensian Crusade and the massacres and forced expulsions suffered by the Circassians at the hands of imperial Russia in the 1860s, as the world entered an'age of genocide'.By exploring the ideological motivations of the perpetrators, the book invites students to engage with the moral complexities of the past and to reflect upon our own situation today as the'legatees of two thousand years of persecution'. Gervase Phillips's book is the ideal introduction to the subject for anyone interested in the long and complex history of human persecution.

'Forbidden City'unveils the captivating history of China's imperial palace, the Palace Museum, exploring its role as the epicenter of power for over five centuries. More than just a collection of buildings, the Forbidden City embodies Chinese cosmology, social hierarchies, and artistic achievements. The book highlights the intricate lives within its walls, from emperors and concubines to eunuchs, revealing the complex power dynamics of Imperial China. The book progresses through three sections, beginning with the foundational concepts of Chinese cosmology and imperial power, explaining how the palace's design embodies the emperor's mandate of heaven. It then ventures into the daily lives of the palace inhabitants, reconstructing their routines, rituals, and power dynamics. Finally, it examines the Forbidden City's transformation into a modern museum, providing insights into China's evolving relationship with its imperial past. This book distinguishes itself by offering a comprehensive yet accessible exploration of the Forbidden City, moving beyond superficial descriptions to reveal the palace's deeper cultural and historical significance. Understanding the Forbidden City is essential for grasping the enduring legacy of imperial China and its continued influence on modern Chinese identity.

Crown Facts explores the rich history and symbolism embedded within royal headpieces, revealing how these objects represent national identity, cultural heritage, and the evolution of monarchy. More than mere symbols of wealth, crowns reflect intricate narratives shaped by social, political, and religious forces. For instance, the specific gemstones, metals, and shapes chosen for a crown were carefully selected to communicate authority, legitimacy, and even divine right, differing significantly across cultures. The book traces the origins of crowns from ancient civilizations to modern monarchies, examining their design and function through a structured approach. Beginning with an introduction to royal regalia, it progresses to a detailed analysis of crowns from Europe, Asia, and Africa, highlighting unique cultural influences. Crown Facts further investigates the modern role of crowns in contemporary society and popular culture, using historical documents, art historical analyses, and anthropological studies to reveal how these symbols have evolved over time. By connecting interdisciplinary fields like political science, art history, and anthropology, the book presents crowns as dynamic symbols reflecting changing political landscapes and cultural values. This thematic examination of crowns, rather than a biographical study of monarchs, offers readers interested in world history a unique lens to understand broader historical trends and the symbolism inherent in material culture.