Books matching: history of each country
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- #1
Author Michael Booth explores the Nordic countries - Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Iceland - in his book 'The Almost Nearly Perfect People: Behind the Myth of the Scandinavian Utopia'. Booth delves into the cultural curiosities of these countries, shedding light on their quality of life, political systems, and societal norms. Through his own experiences and interactions, Booth provides a nuanced look at the strengths and weaknesses of the Scandinavian nations, challenging the idealized image often portrayed in the media. The book combines humor, historical facts, interviews with locals and experts, and insightful commentary to offer readers a deeper understanding of the Nordic region.
As the rainclouds finally part to reveal an electric blue, early evening sky, we venture out of the tent sniffing the cool, damp air like nervous rescue animals, turning to savor the last warmth of th... 'Capitalism: A Very Short Introduction' by James Fulcher delves into the history, evolution, and impact of capitalism on the global economy. Through a concise and informative narrative, the author explores the reasons behind the cycle of boom and bust in economies, providing insights on how to navigate through these oscillations. Fulcher presents a critical analysis of capitalism, discussing its various forms, challenges, and adaptations in different countries. offers a deep dive into the development of capitalism from its early stages to its current state, highlighting key milestones and societal implications along the way.
The writing style of the book is engaging and accessible, making complex economic concepts easy to understand for readers of various backgrounds. It provides a historical overview of capitalism while also addressing contemporary issues and challenges faced by capitalist societies. By offering a mix of historical context, theoretical analysis, and real-world examples, the book aims to broaden readers' perspectives on capitalism and its role in shaping modern societies.
In April 1601 the English East India Company sent its first expedition to the East Indies. After some eighteen months its four ships, Ascension, Dragon, Hector, and Susan, had returned from Sumatra an...- #3
'The Rape of Nanking' by Iris Chang is a harrowing and eye-opening account of the Japanese atrocities committed in Nanking during WWII. The book delves into the brutal occupation of Nanking, detailing the mass carnage, mutilations, rapes, and dehumanizations that occurred. Chang's writing style is factual and unemotional, presenting a clear and straightforward exposition of the events that took place, while also highlighting the lack of accountability of the Japanese government and people.
Chang's book not only sheds light on a dark chapter in history but also emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and learning from past atrocities. Through first-hand accounts, testimonies, and detailed descriptions, Chang exposes the cover-up of the grand scale atrocities in Nanking and challenges readers to confront the capacity of humankind for such brutality. Despite the graphic and disturbing nature of the content, the book is praised for its thoroughness, historical significance, and the author's effort to promote humanity and understanding amidst the horrors depicted.
IN TRYING to understand the actions of the Japanese, the questions that call out loudest for answers are the most obvious ones. What broke down on the scene to allow the behavior of Japanese soldiers ... - #4
"Mexico" by James A. Michener is a historical epic that delves into the rich tapestry of Mexican history, culture, and traditions. Through the intertwined stories of the Clay Palafox family spanning generations, the novel explores themes of courage, persistence, and optimism against the backdrop of bullfighting, which serves as a focal point. Michener expertly weaves together historical events, characters, and real-life figures to provide a comprehensive view of Mexico's past, from the colonization by Spain to the wars with America, offering readers a vivid and educational reading experience.
Despite some criticisms about the excessive focus on bullfighting and the book's length, "Mexico" is praised for its rich characterization, detailed plotting, and the insight it provides into upper-class Mexican life and culture. The novel is commended for its ability to bring history alive, capturing the essence of Mexico through its diverse characters and engaging plotlines, making it a worthwhile and enlightening read for those interested in Mexican history and heritage.
I was therefore burdened with unfamiliar gear—a large carrying case of Japanese cameras, some of which could photograph swift action occurring at a distance—and as my rickety bus trundled across centr... - #5
"The Source" by James A. Michener is a sweeping historical novel that delves into the vast history of the land of Israel through the lens of an archaeological dig at Tell Makor. The book intertwines various historical eras and characters, exploring the evolution of religion in the region from ancient times to the modern day. Each layer of history is portrayed with rich storytelling, blending facts and archaeological evidence to paint a vivid picture of the cultures that inhabited the fictional coastal village.
The narrative structure of "The Source" is unique, with interconnected stories for each time period discovered during the archaeological dig, tracing the history of Judaism and the introduction of Christianity and Islam into the region. Through vignettes involving both real and fictional characters, the book explores cataclysmic events that shaped beliefs and ideologies, offering a comprehensive panorama of Jewish history filled with passion, pain, and strength.
On Tuesday the freighter steamed through the Straits of Gibraltar and for five days plowed eastward through the Mediterranean, past islands and peninsulas rich in history, so that on Saturday night th... - #6
'The Covenant' by James A. Michener is a sweeping historical fiction novel that covers the history of South Africa over 500 years, starting from the early San peoples to the era of apartheid. The book follows the stories of several families - one Dutch Afrikaner, one English, and one native - providing a fictional account of the founding of South Africa through well-researched storytelling. The writing style of Michener presents the history of South Africa through different time periods with extremely interesting characters, giving readers a comprehensive introduction to the country's complex past.
While these narcotic names infected him with their sweet poison he stayed on deck and watched the moon tiptoe across the waves of an ocean he still could not comprehend, and grudgingly he admitted tha... - #7
'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson is an engrossing mystery thriller set in Sweden, following the investigative journalist Mikael Blomkvist and the young genius hacker Lisbeth Salander as they team up to solve a decades-old murder mystery. The story unfolds with intricate twists and turns, uncovering vile family secrets and introducing a cast of strong, believable characters. The plot builds over time, making for an excellent and well-written read with fascinating characters and an interesting storyline that keeps readers guessing.
The narrative delves into themes of financial intrigue, murder, and love, balancing multiple genres skillfully. Despite some graphic scenes of violence and rape, the book manages to keep readers engaged with its complicated plot and well-drawn characters, particularly the enigmatic Lisbeth Salander. Larsson's writing style, though at times clunky due to translation, effectively captures the essence of the mystery, making it a compelling and suspenseful read for those who enjoy intricate thrillers.
The trial was irretrievably over; everything that could be said had been said, but he had never doubted that he would lose. The written verdict was handed down at 10:00 on Friday morning, and all that... - #8
'Poland' by James A. Michener follows the history of Poland through eight centuries, focusing on the stories of three families - the Counts Lubonski, the petty nobles Bukowski, and the peasants Buk. The novel covers significant historical events from the invasions of the Tatars to modern-day Poland, highlighting the pride, heritage, and solidarity of the Polish people. The narrative touches on themes of national pride, ongoing tensions, and the struggles faced by the people of Poland throughout the centuries, including invasions, rebuilding, and the impact of tyrannies.
Magnates: Owners of vast lands and with many prerogatives, they controlled Poland, with no superior power to discipline them. Ostensibly similar to the great barons of England, they were in fact much ... - #9
'A History of America in Ten Strikes' by Erik Loomis is a well-researched account of the history of the labor movement in the United States. The book delves into the significant strikes that shaped the working class, while also discussing broader issues affecting Americans at the time. Loomis highlights the struggles of working men and women uniting to improve their working conditions and personal lives, against the backdrop of the general narrative of US history. The author emphasizes the importance of unions representing the interests of workers and electing officials who support those interests through legislation.
When Christopher Columbus stumbled across the Americas in 1492, he had specific ideas about work, who would do it, and who would benefit. So did the European nations that followed him: Spain and Portu... - #10
'Ten Myths about Israel' by Ilan Pappe is a critical examination of the official narrative surrounding the creation and history of Israel, focusing on the treatment of the Palestinian people. Pappe delves into the myths and fallacies surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, using historical evidence and political declassified documents to challenge mainstream perspectives. The book provides a detailed account of the Israeli takeover of Palestine, exposing misinformation propagated by Zionists and offering a comprehensive overview of the ongoing conflict.
The geopolitical space today called Israel or Palestine has been a recognized country since Roman times. Its status and conditions in the distant past are topics for heated debate between those who be...