Books matching: rise and fall of empires
49 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
Save:'After Tamerlane' by John Darwin is a comprehensive exploration of the history of economics and empires, focusing on the causes and effects from a revisionist standpoint. It delves into the complexities of human civilization, trade, empire building, and the nature of power throughout history. The book provides a detailed account of major events across Eurasia, Africa, and the Americas, offering a global perspective on the evolution of empires and their impact on the modern world. Darwin's writing style is engaging and informative, presenting a broad survey of historical patterns and connections that shape our understanding of past and present empires.
The death of Tamerlane in 1405 was a turning point in world history. Tamerlane was the last of the series of ‘world-conquerors’ in the tradition of Attila and Genghis Khan, who strove to bring the who... - #2
Save:"In the Shadow of the Sword" by Tom Holland is a detailed exploration of the origins of Islam, intertwined with the decline of the Roman and Persian empires in the Near East. The book delves into the rise of monotheism, tracing the development of religions such as Zoroastrianism, Judaism, and Christianity, and their impact on the political and military landscape of the time period. Holland's writing style, though at times sensational and jaunty, presents a lively survey of the historical events, from the Arab conquests to the formation of the Arab empire, challenging traditional assumptions about Islam's origins.
The author weaves together narratives of various religions and empires, offering insights into the cultural, religious, and political landscape of the 8th and 9th centuries. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Holland explores the complexities of the birth of Islam, shedding light on the connections between different belief systems and their evolution during a tumultuous period in history.
Yusuf As’ar Yath’ar, an Arab king celebrated for his long hair, his piety and his utter ruthlessness, had been brought to defeat. Leaving the reek of the battlefield, he rode his blood-flecked white c... 'Ancient Worlds: The Search for the Origins of Western Civilization' by Richard Miles is a comprehensive exploration of over 4000 years of ancient history, focusing on the birth and evolution of civilizations from Mesopotamia to the fall of the Western Roman Empire. The book delves into the importance of geography, settlement, cities, rulers, politics, societies, communication, cooperation, and conflict, offering a broad overview of early civilizations in the Northern Hemisphere. Miles' writing style is described as friendly, lively, authoritative, occasionally humorous, and gripping, making the complex historical content easily understandable for readers.
The book covers various ancient civilizations such as the Sumerians, Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians, Phoenicians, Greeks, Macedonians, and Romans, providing insights into their cultures, rulers, and daily lives. With a focus on the development of civilization forms and similarities across the Mediterranean and Near East, Miles connects different early civilizations in their wider contexts, highlighting the interconnections between them and showcasing the progression of civilization through autocracy, oligarchy, kingship, democracy, empire, and theocracy.
The emergence of these thriving communities made up of individuals and groups with no blood ties was unprecedented in human experience. How did these extraordinary advances happen? The answer partly l...- #4
Save:'Europe: A History' by Norman Davies is an exhaustive tour of the history of Europe, covering prehistory through the present day. The book provides a comprehensive overview of European history, focusing on migrations, rise and fall of empires, and the geographical context of the continent. Davies tries to counteract the bias of 'Eurocentrism' and 'Western civilization' throughout the book, highlighting little known facts or anecdotes about European history. The book includes extensive notes, maps, and appendices, making it a valuable resource for anyone studying or interested in European history.
- #5
Save:Foundation and Empire, the second book in the Foundation series by Isaac Asimov, continues the saga with big ideas and central characters like Bayta and the mysterious enemy, the Mule. The plot revolves around the Foundation facing challenges from the remnants of the Galactic Empire and the unexpected foe, the Mule, who can manipulate people's emotions telepathically. The story is a mix of psychohistory predictions, charismatic leaders, and the struggle to maintain the Seldon Plan in a vast, science fiction universe.
But Bel Riose was young and energetic—energetic enough to be sent as near the end of the universe as possible by an unemotional and calculating court—and curious besides. Strange and improbable tales ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Foundation ) In The Lucifer Principle: A Scientific Expedition into the Forces of History, Howard Bloom delves into various topics such as the biological basis for human evil, the rise and fall of empires, and the impact of technological advancements on societies. Through well-researched content, Bloom challenges popular beliefs about civilization, suggesting that evil is inherent in human nature and that technological complacency can lead to the decline of nations. The book offers a unique perspective on history, weaving together scientific exploration, societal analysis, and literary references to present a thought-provoking narrative that encourages readers to reconsider their assumptions about the world.
Bloom's writing style in The Lucifer Principle is described as engaging and intellectually stimulating, prompting readers to engage in lively discussions and further research on the topics covered in the book. By offering a cold, rational outlook on relationships and power structures, the book aims to inspire readers to think critically about historical events, societal norms, and the complexities of human nature, ultimately challenging them to adopt a more open-minded approach to understanding the forces that shape our world.
The Lucifer Principle takes fresh data from a variety of sciences and shapes them into a perceptual lens, a tool with which to reinterpret the human experience. It attempts to offer a very different a...- #7
Save:Lost to the West: The Forgotten Byzantine Empire That Rescued Western Civilization by Lars Brownworth covers over 1000 years of Byzantine history, from the first emperor Constantine I to the fall of Constantinople in 1453. The book delves into the core role of Byzantium in preserving Roman civilization and passing it back to Europe after the fall of Constantinople. Readers are taken on a journey through the Byzantine Empire's territorial and dynastic struggles, its resilience in the face of invasion and internal conflicts, and its lasting impact on Western civilization.
The long-suffering people of the third-century Roman Empire had the distinct misfortune to live in interesting times. For three centuries before Constantine’s birth, Roman architects, engineers, and s... - #8
Save:'The Anarchy: The East India Company, Corporate Violence, and the Pillage of an Empire' by William Dalrymple is a historical narrative detailing the rise of the East India Company and its takeover of the Indian subcontinent. The book covers events from the late 16th century to the early 19th century, focusing on the Company's exploitation of political disunity, military tactics, and economic conquest to amass wealth and power. Dalrymple's writing style is described as vivid and clear, presenting a sordid picture of corporate greed, political manipulation, and cultural clashes during this tumultuous period in history.
Dalrymple weaves together accounts of key figures such as Robert Clive, Warren Hastings, Tipu Sultan, and Shah Alam, shedding light on their roles in the Company's expansion and the downfall of the Mughal Empire. Through extensive research and use of historical documents, the author paints a detailed narrative of how a small group of merchants from a distant land managed to overthrow one of the wealthiest and most powerful empires of the time, leaving a legacy of corporate power and exploitation in their wake.
On 24 September 1599, while William Shakespeare was pondering a draft of Hamlet in his house downriver from the Globe in Southwark, a mile to the north, barely twenty minutes’ walk across the Thames, ... 'Agincourt: Henry V and the Battle That Made England' by Juliet Barker is a meticulously researched account of the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, providing a detailed look at the historical events leading up to and following the battle. Barker's narrative delves into the intricacies of medieval life, chivalry, combat tactics, and the personal stories of the prominent figures involved in this significant event. The book offers a thorough examination of the preparation for the battle, the conflict between the English and French forces, and the long-term impact of the battle on both nations.
Barker's writing style in 'Agincourt: Henry V and the Battle That Made England' is described as clear, fast-paced, and engaging. Readers appreciate Barker's ability to bring history to life, making the events surrounding the Battle of Agincourt compelling and accessible. The book not only focuses on the battle itself but also explores the broader context of the campaign, including the siege of Harfleur, the political dynamics of the time, and the aftermath of the conflict, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal moment in English history.
The last letter that Henry V sent to Charles VI of France before he launched the Agincourt campaign was an ultimatum, its opening lines, which in most medieval correspondence were an opportunity for f...- #10
Save:'The History of the Medieval World: From the Conversion of Constantine to the First Crusade' by Susan Wise Bauer is a comprehensive overview of the medieval period, spanning across different continents and cultures. The writing style is engaging, with short chapters that read like episodes, each focusing on different rulers, adventures, and intrigues. The narrative flows smoothly, providing insights into the evolution of societies and influences during the Middle Ages.
delves into the religious, political, and daily life aspects of the medieval era, offering readers a detailed yet accessible introduction to a complex period in history. The author's inclusion of humor and occasional personal comments adds a touch of lightness to the otherwise vast and intricate subject matter, making it an engrossing read for both history enthusiasts and beginners.
Nor was it the last horrible death. Licinius then murdered Maximinus Daia’s two young children, both under the age of nine, and drowned their mother; he also put to death three other possible blood cl...
