Books matching: detailed historical events
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Nothing Like It in the World: The Men Who Built the Transcontinental Railroad 1863-69' by author Stephen E. Ambrose is a fascinating history that delves into the planning and construction of the transcontinental railroad. The narrative focuses on the race to lay tracks from both termini of the railroad, culminating in the joining at Promontory, Utah. Ambrose weaves together elements of politics, finance, fraud, and intrigue, providing a detailed account of this monumental undertaking. is described as an engaging read that offers insight into the challenges faced by those involved in building the railroad, while also highlighting the significant impact it had on American society during the 19th century.
AUGUST 13, 1859, was a hot day in Council Bluffs, Iowa. The settlement was on the western boundary of the state, just across the Missouri River from the Nebraska village of Omaha. A politician from th... - #2
Save:'The Russian Revolution' by Richard Pipes delves into the history of Russia before and during the revolution of 1917, portraying a country on the brink of political rebellion and societal transformation. Pipes highlights the oppressive governance of Russia, drawing parallels to imperial powers like the British in India or the French in Indo China. The narrative focuses on key figures like Lenin and the Bolsheviks, shedding light on their ideologies and actions during this tumultuous period in Russian history. The author's writing style is described as detailed and comprehensive, providing a thorough account of the events leading up to and following the revolution.
The events we have described occurred in a country that in many respects was unique. Ruled (until 1905) by an absolute monarchy, administered by an all-powerful bureaucracy, and composed of social cas... - #3
Save:In "Two Brothers" by Ben Elton, the story follows the lives of two brothers born in Berlin in 1920, set against the backdrop of the rise of Nazism and the horrors of World War II. The narrative explores the challenges faced by the brothers as they navigate through a changing Germany, highlighting the impact of the Nazi Party on their lives. The book delves into the complexities of family, friendship, and love, while also providing a detailed portrayal of the historical events during that period, including the systematic persecution of the Jewish population.
The novel is praised for its rich historical setting, particularly the vivid descriptions of 1920s Berlin, the Jazz clubs, and the night club scene, which effectively set the stage for the rise of Nazism. The storyline is compelling, focusing on the brothers' journey as they try to beat the system and survive the tumultuous times. Despite being a lengthy read, the book is described as well-constructed and beautifully realized, offering an important perspective on the gradual degradation inflicted on various groups in Germany during that era.
It was past dawn but the coming of day had done little to relieve the darkness and gloom of the long freezing night that had preceded it. Her breath hung heavily in the dull light as she shook her hus... - #4
Save:Empires of Sand by David Ball is a historical adventure fiction novel set in the 19th century, dividing its narrative between Paris and the Sahara during the Franco-Prussian War. The book follows French protagonists through a tale of action, love, and cultural narrative, immersing readers in a world of intrigue, deception, and forbidden love on an exotic stage. The writing style is described as old-school adventure with a vibe reminiscent of stories like Indiana Jones, focusing on detailed historical events and rich character development.
“The children! Hold fire!” It was too late. The gun roared and kicked back against the huntsman’s shoulder. It was a long shot, a hundred and fifty meters or more. He had almost not seen the boar, nea... Barbara W. Tuchman's 'The March of Folly: From Troy to Vietnam' delves into the epic errors and blunders in history made by governments and leaders. The book examines historical instances where policies contrary to self-interest were pursued, despite feasible alternatives being available. Through analyzing events such as the Trojan War, the Renaissance Popes' actions leading to the Reformation, the British loss of the American colonies, and the United States' involvement in the Vietnam War, Tuchman presents a thought-provoking exploration of governmental folly throughout the ages. The writing style is described as clear and engaging, making complex ideas accessible and compelling for readers.
A phenomenon noticeable throughout history regardless of place or period is the pursuit by governments of policies contrary to their own interests. Mankind, it seems, makes a poorer performance of gov...'The Bounty: The True Story of the Mutiny on the Bounty' by Caroline Alexander delves into the intricacies of the mutiny that occurred on the HMS Bounty. Through meticulous research, Alexander presents a detailed account of the events leading up to the mutiny, the aftermath, and the lives of key figures such as Captain Bligh and Fletcher Christian. The writing style is immersive, painting a vivid picture of life at sea, the challenges faced by the crew, and the clash of cultures during this historical event.
His small vessel pitching in the squally winter sea, a young British naval lieutenant waited restlessly to embark upon the most important and daunting voyage of his still young but highly promising ca...- #7
Save:"City of Dreams" by Beverly Swerling follows the story of a sister and brother, Lucas and Sally Turner, who settle in the Dutch settlement of Nieuw Amsterdam in 1661. The Turners establish themselves as a barber doctor and an apothecary specialist and become entangled in the long and combative relationship between the Turners and the Devereys over several centuries. The plot spans over a hundred and fifty years, showcasing the emergence of New York from a small Dutch settlement to becoming the world's capital city, all intertwined with colorful characters and detailed accounts of historical events. The writing style is described as magnificent, with impeccable research and a blend of 'spice' and flavor, making the reading experience enjoyable and thrilling.
There was a wooden wharf of sorts, but two ships were already moored alongside it. The Princess dropped anchor some fifty yards away, and a raft carried them to shore. It wasn’t big enough to take eve... - #8
Save:'Killer of Men' by Christian Cameron follows the journey of Arimnestos of Plataea, a young man who evolves from a slave to a warrior, hero, and avenger. The book delves into Arimnestos' growth, his experiences in warfare, battles against the Spartans, and his interactions with great philosophers and leaders of ancient times. The narrative is shaped by an old man recounting his life experiences, providing a vivid and authentic portrayal of the conflicts between Greece and Persia during the Long War.
The thing that I remember best – and maybe it’s my first memory, too – is the forge. My father, the smith – aye, he farmed too, because every free man in Boeotia counted his wealth in farmland – but P... - #9
Save:"Hard Country" by Michael McGarrity is a historical novel that spans over three generations of the Kerney family in post American Civil War New Mexico up to the end of World War One. The story follows the lives of the Kerney men and the various challenges they face, including battling the environment, outlaws, corrupt politicians, and their own personal demons. The author paints a vivid picture of the geography and history of the West, making readers feel like they are right there alongside the characters. The plot unfolds with rich details and a range of characters who develop and change in response to the external situations they encounter.
The narrative style of Michael McGarrity is engaging and makes each page a page-turner. is more than just a western novel; it delves into the complexities of family dynamics, history, and personal growth. Readers will find themselves deeply absorbed in the tale, feeling a range of emotions as they follow the Kerney family's journey through the challenges and triumphs of life in the old West.
Mary Alice Kerney spent the late afternoon hours of a dry September day cleaning the one-room cabin her husband, John, had built upon their arrival in West Texas. They had settled on the land soon aft... 'Ice Ghosts: The Epic Hunt for the Lost Franklin Expedition' by Paul Watson delves into the mysterious disappearance of the Franklin expedition ships, Erebus and Terror, and the subsequent searches to uncover their fate. The narrative is a detailed account of the historical events, the challenges faced by the crews, and the relentless efforts to find the lost ships. The author intertwines the personal stories of the explorers, the political dynamics of the time, and the cultural aspects of the Arctic region, providing a comprehensive and engaging exploration of this tragic expedition.
