The Shortest History of Italy.

The Shortest History of Italy by Ross King provides a concise overview of Italy's complex and diverse history. The book explores the origins of Italy as a loose collection of city-states, its connection to the Roman Empire, and the subsequent invasions and influences that shaped its identity. King also delves into the significance of Italian art and culture, particularly during the Renaissance, and the dark period of Fascism in the early 20th century. The book highlights the importance of critically confronting Italy's history and acknowledges the multifaceted nature of the country's past. [Extracted from the article]