Book description
From one of the world's leading historians?a comprehensive narrative
of the 3,000 years that have formed Asia's people, culture, and global destiny
Tracing its origins in Mesopotamia to its modern role on the global
geopolitical stage, historian Arthur Cotterell offers a compelling,
lively, and readable account of one of the most culturally diverse,
and often misunderstood, parts of the world. Beginning with the
emergence of the world's earliest civilization in 3000 BC, Asia: A
Concise History provides a fascinating look at the global
convulsions?like the rise and fall of Assyria and Persia, the medieval
states that flourished after the advent of Islam, and the modern
transformations triggered by the lightning conquests of imperial
Japan?that have shaped the continent.
- Covers the great events and figures of Asian history, along with
a look at the monumental remains that bear witness to those times:
the ziggurats of Iraq, the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China, the
temple of Angkor Wat
- Includes fascinating slices of history, including funeral
arrangements for Qin Shi Huangdi in 210 BC; an extract from Lord
Macartney's journal of his 1793 diplomatic mission to the Qing
emperor Qian Long; and Toyotomi Hideyoshi's edict of 1587 banning
firearms in Japan
- Features boxed inserts of special interest?like a Babylonian
recipe for lamb stew circa 1500 BC
- Contains over 100 illustrations, maps, and photos
- Other books by Cotterell: The Minoan World, The First
Emperor of China, The Encyclopedia of Mythology, and Chariot
Destined to become a reference staple for history buffs and students
of Asian history, Asia: A Concise History offers readers a
breathtaking narrative and wealth of detail that make the formative
periods, key events, and personalities from this once remote part of
the world come alive.
Arthur Cotterell, currently residing in England,
was a former Principal of Kingston College in London. He has spent
many years combining senior educational management with historical
research. Arthur currently spends most of his time on writing, and
travels extensively throughout Asia.
Arthur is the respected
author of more than thirty books. His most recent publications
include, The Imperial Capitals of China, Leadership and
Chariot.
