| Synopsis: |
In THE RISE AND FALL OF EMPIRES, a best-selling historian examines the triumph and demise of seven empires of global reach and influence, from the ancient world to the present. The imperia de choix are the Persian, Roman, Ottoman, Spanish, Dutch, British and French empires. Hywel Williams provides accessible but authoritative characterizations of each, explores their power structures, and identifies the reasons for their rise and eventual fall. THE RISE AND FALL OF EMPIRES also explores some recurrent themes in the history of empire: What makes an empire great? Who are the people involved in imperial projects? How do empires cope with the problem of disparate peoples and religions within their borders. How do imperial structures collapse? Bold, thought-provoking and unafraid of the big thesis and the controversial conclusion, THE RISE AND FALL OF EMPIRES will change the way you think about world history. |