Books matching: historical trade routes
8 result(s)
- #1
Save:A true classic of travel literature - fascinating if you love history and adventure, but not the easiest or most modern read. Worth a try for the curious explorer at heart!
The record left by Marco Polo of his travels sparked European imaginations about the world beyond their horizons, leading to new trade routes and the discovery of the American continents. The book provides a detailed tour of various parts of China, India, and the Middle East, showcasing a wide array of cultures, customs, and landscapes encountered by Marco Polo and his companions.
LET me begin with Armenia. The truth is that there are actually two Armenias, a Greater and a Lesser. The lord of Lesser Armenia is a king who maintains good and just government in his country under t...1298•390 pages A surprisingly captivating read about how humble cod helped shape the world - perfect for curious minds, but not for those allergic to fish, history, or quirky recipes.
'Cod: A Biography of the Fish that Changed the World' by Mark Kurlansky delves into the history, impact, and significance of cod fishing on various cultures and societies throughout the centuries. Through a mix of historical facts, cultural anecdotes, and personal reflections, the author explores the role of cod in shaping trade routes, technological advancements, and political landscapes. not only covers the rise of cod as a valuable resource but also sheds light on the environmental consequences of overfishing and depletion of cod populations.
Kurlansky's writing style in 'Cod' is described as engaging, informative, and well-researched. Readers appreciate the author's ability to present complex historical and scientific information in a readable and entertaining manner. is praised for its blend of storytelling, historical insights, and culinary references, making it an intriguing exploration of how a seemingly mundane subject like cod can have far-reaching implications on human history and society.
Amedieval fisherman is said to have hauled up a three-foot-long cod, which was common enough at the time. And the fact that the cod could talk was not especially surprising. But what was astonishing w...1988•296 pagesAn entertaining, insightful look at how fabric has shaped our world - perfect for curious readers who love history seen through a fresh and tactile lens.
'The Golden Thread: How Fabric Changed History' by Kassia St. Clair is a fascinating exploration of the impact of various fabrics on society throughout history. The book weaves together stories of the discovery and invention of different textiles, from ancient silk in China to modern synthetic fabrics. Readers are taken on a journey through time, uncovering the role of fabrics in shaping human culture and civilizations. St. Clair's writing style is described as accessible and engaging, drawing readers into the rich tapestry of textile history with vivid descriptions and insightful perspectives.
The threads that Kvavadze found are invisible to the naked eye, and the objects they were part of disintegrated long ago. Nevertheless, these fibres do allow the curious to get some intriguing glimpse...2014•351 pages- #4
Save:'A Falcon Flies' from 'The Ballantyne Novels' series by Wilbur Smith follows the intertwining stories of Zouga Ballantyne, his sister Robyn, and a slaver. The detailed descriptions provide insight into the characters' thoughts and actions, including their differing opinions and the perspective of the slaves involved in the African slave trade. covers vast distances in Africa, showcasing the landscapes, people, and challenges faced by pioneers like Zouga and Robyn Ballantyne.
The narrative delves into the complexities of the characters' journeys, from hunting giant elephants to battling the elements on clipper ships. Wilbur Smith's writing style immerses the reader in the adventures, making them feel like they are part of the story. weaves together multiple sub-stories that culminate in a satisfying conclusion, showcasing Smith's skill in blending different narratives seamlessly.
Robyn Ballantyne stood by the ship’s rail and stared towards it. She had been standing like that since an hour before dawn, long before the land could be seen. She had known it was there, sensed its v...1980•655 pages A sweeping, ambitious, and thought-provoking alternative take on world history - more about global crossroads and shifting power than just spices and silk. Not perfect, but definitely worth a look if you want your view of history shaken up.
'The Silk Roads: A New History of the World' by Peter Frankopan is a comprehensive narrative of world history focusing on the regions from the Mediterranean to the Himalayas, and across Central Asia to China. It presents a new perspective on historical events, emphasizing the connections and exchanges that took place along the Silk Roads over centuries. The author weaves a compelling account of the history of the Middle East and Central Asia, shedding light on trade, news, and religious views that traversed the vast tracts that were formerly part of the Soviet Union.
offers insights into the impact of historical events on current affairs and explores the shifting balance of power between Europe, Asia, and the United States. It delves into the complexities of interactions and influences across different regions, highlighting the significance of the Silk Roads in shaping civilizations and world politics. The narrative provides a unique perspective on world history, challenging the Euro-centric viewpoint and offering a broader understanding of global events.
From the beginning of time, the centre of Asia was where empires were made. The alluvial lowlands of Mesopotamia, fed by the Tigris and Euphrates, provided the basis for civilisation itself – for it w...2015•636 pages- #6
Save:A vibrant, accessible journey through world history - ideal for reference, study, or just satisfying your curiosity. Not perfect for pinpoint navigation, but a solid addition to any history lover’s shelf.
The 'Atlas of World History' by John Haywood is a comprehensive and detailed reference book that covers the history of the world from the beginning of time up until 1997. The book is filled with big, colorful maps that are heavy on historical details, including information on proto-humans, empires, historical boundaries, trade routes, migration routes, military movements, religion, culture, and more. Each map is accompanied by narration and a timeline, providing readers with a broad overview of historical events across the globe.
The writing style of the book is described as proficient and easy to read, making it accessible to readers of all ages. The author, John Haywood, provides a well-organized layout with detailed information that is both informative and engaging. The book is praised for its usefulness as a resource for students studying history, as well as for individuals interested in exploring the changing boundaries of countries over time.
1997•255 pages A vivid, adventurous account of how Portugal rewrote the map and world trade, delivering history to your lap in all its drama - but expect a long prelude before the main act. Worth it for anyone curious about the real Age of Discovery.
'The Last Crusade: The Epic Voyages of Vasco Da Gama' by Nigel Cliff is a comprehensive account of the Age of Discovery, focusing on the epic voyages undertaken by Vasco da Gama and the Portuguese explorers. The book delves into the historical conflict between Christianity and Islam, the establishment of the Portuguese empire, and the brutal battles fought to secure trade routes to India and the Far East. Cliff's writing style is engaging and informative, providing readers with a detailed narrative of the audacious and far-reaching expeditions that changed the course of history.
“Wrap me up!” the forty-year-old merchant said, shivering miserably as he crawled up to his wife, who threw a cloak around him and held him, stroking his hair as he wept. He had been meditating in his...2011•566 pagesA powerful, thorough, and much-needed history that fills in the gaps left by most school lessons. While it can be a challenging read, it’s a must for anyone seeking to truly understand Britain’s past and present.
'Black and British: A Forgotten History' by David Olusoga is a powerful and thorough examination of Black people in British history. The book takes readers through nearly 900 years of Black history in Britain, highlighting the connections with West Africa, the Caribbean, and the USA. Olusoga methodically covers topics such as the triangular trade route, the sugar industry, abolition of slavery, and the role of Black people during and after WWI and WWII. The writing style is dense with facts and information, presenting a detailed and interesting history that is both harrowing and heartbreaking.
November 2016•624 pages
