Summaries of books about Ancient History:
1177 B.C.
The Year Civilization Collapsed: Revised and Updated
Eric H. Cline
The book explores the causes behind the sudden and mysterious collapse of the Bronze Age civilizations around 1177 B.C., examining a complex web of factors including natural disasters, invasions, and economic turmoil. It delves into the archaeological and historical evidence to understand the end of an era and the transition to the Iron Age.
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The Twelve Caesars (Annotated)
Suetonius
The book provides detailed biographies of the first twelve rulers of the Roman Empire, from Julius Caesar through to Domitian, offering insights into their political careers, personal lives, and the machinations of imperial Rome. It combines historical narrative with anecdotes, presenting a vivid picture of the excesses, achievements, and personalities of these powerful leaders.
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Dead Famous
An Unexpected History of Celebrity from Bronze Age to Silver Screen
Greg Jenner
The book explores the concept of celebrity throughout history, tracing its origins from the Bronze Age through to the early 20th century. It examines how fame was achieved and maintained across different eras and cultures, revealing the social and technological factors that have shaped public fascination with certain individuals.
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Kindred
Neanderthal Life, Love, Death and Art
Rebecca Wragg Sykes
The book delves into the latest scientific research to reconstruct the daily life, culture, and sophistication of Neanderthals, challenging outdated stereotypes about their existence. It explores their social structures, survival strategies, and possible interactions with Homo sapiens, shedding light on their cognitive abilities and artistic expressions.
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The Golden Thread
How Fabric Changed History
Kassia St. Clair
The book explores the pivotal role textiles have played throughout human history, from the Stone Age to the present day. It delves into the cultural, economic, and technological significance of fabrics, revealing their influence on everything from global trade to personal identity and social progress.
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The World Until Yesterday
What Can We Learn from Traditional Societies?
Jared Diamond
The book explores various aspects of traditional societies, such as conflict resolution, child-rearing, treatment of the elderly, and diet, drawing comparisons with modern industrial societies. It delves into how these practices might inform contemporary life, offering insights into human behavior and cultural evolution.
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A History of Ancient Britain
Neil Oliver
The book delves into the deep past of Britain, from the Ice Age to the Roman conquest, exploring the lives, cultures, and legacies of its ancient inhabitants. It presents archaeological discoveries and historical insights that reveal how these early societies evolved and interacted with their changing environment.
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A Million Years in a Day
A Curious History of Everyday Life from the Stone Age to the Phone Age
Greg Jenner
The book explores the history of daily routines and common practices, tracing their origins from the Stone Age to modern times. It delves into the evolution of habits such as eating, sleeping, and hygiene, revealing the historical context behind the mundane activities of contemporary life.
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Ancient Aliens
The Official Companion Book
The Producers of Ancient Aliens
The book delves into the theories and speculations presented in the "Ancient Aliens" television series, exploring the idea that extraterrestrial beings have influenced human history. It includes interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and evidence that proponents believe support the existence of ancient alien visitors.
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Ten Caesars
Roman Emperors from Augustus to Constantine
Barry Strauss
The book provides a historical account of the lives and reigns of ten significant emperors who shaped the Roman Empire, from its inception under Augustus to its transformation under Constantine. It delves into their political strategies, military campaigns, personal lives, and the cultural and societal impacts of their rule over the centuries.
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