Histories of the Modern Nations – serie

This latest addition to the Histories of the Modern Nations series explores the complex and contested history of the United States from the nation's precolonial origins to the present day.Supported by contemporary historiography and an array of primary sources, this book examines how Americans from varied backgrounds and perspectives, from indigenous peoples, to African Americans, women, workers, and immigrants, have struggled to broaden the definition of “We the People” and extend freedom and opportunity to all Americans. From before the time of Christopher Columbus to the presidencies of Joseph R. Biden and Donald Trump, the author introduces readers to the people, events, and ideas that have for more than two centuries shaped the story of the United States both at home and abroad."

Introduces readers to the geography and human history of one of the largest islands in the Caribbean.Now in its second edition, The History of Puerto Rico is a richly informed and thoughtful introduction to the fourth-largest Caribbean island and its peoples. Beginning with an overview of the island's earliest inhabitants and placing particular emphasis on the pre-colonial Taino culture, the book explores Puerto Rico's long history as a colony, first under Spain and then as an unincorporated U.S. territory with varying degrees of autonomy. Going beyond the usual listing of important historical figures and government officials, the author explores how Puerto Rico's Indigenous peoples and working classes have worked together to survive and maintain their cultures and traditions under colonial rule for more than five centuries. A new section outlines ongoing efforts to determine how, when, or if Puerto Rico will gain statehood or independence, and a revised conclusion examines the most pressing challenges facing the island today. These include income inequality, a debt crisis, and an uncertain future in which Puerto Rico is more vulnerable than ever to climate change and natural disasters.

The Russia-Ukraine war that began in 2022 turned the world's attention on Ukraine, the second-largest country in Europe and one of the leading global exporters of wheat and other valuable commodities. Though some Russian leaders have long denied and continue to reject Ukrainian sovereignty, this book presents a comprehensive picture of Ukraine that is both intertwined with and distinct from Russian history. From its days as Kyivan Rus and its inclusion in the Russian Empire to the fall of the Soviet Union, the Euromaidan demonstrations, and the outbreak of war with Russia, Ukraine, as this book demonstrates, has developed its own identity, territory, and culture. With a timeline of events, short biographies of contemporary and historical figures, and a useful annotated bibliography, this book unpacks the historical claims and issues relevant to the conflict with Russia and provides an accessible introduction to Ukraine and its peoples.

Learn the history of the smallest country in the world and the people and events that shaped it.Stretching from the martyrdom of Saint Peter in 64 to Leo XIV becoming the first American pope in 2025, the Vatican has a long and fascinating history. Entwined with religious history, the volume traces the evolution of Roman Catholicism and its impact on the political, social, and religious scenes not only within the Vatican but in the world beyond. Key events, including the building of St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican becoming its own (and the smallest) country, are discussed within historical context, building a rich and comprehensive view of the Vatican throughout time.In addition to this accessible history, the book further aids readers with a detailed timeline for quick reference and a section of short biographies on key features in the Vatican's history. This volume is a perfect starting place for any learner aiming to learn about and understand the Vatican and its place in world history.

Explore the arts, culture, and history of Italy through this accessibly written second edition. Famous for the Colosseum in Rome, the canals of Venice, the renowned fashion houses of Milan, and the beauty of the Tuscan countryside, Italy is a vibrant tapestry of ancient landmarks and modern industry. In the 21st century, Italian history has been shaped by the transformative political influence of media mogul Silvio Berlusconi, who served multiple terms as prime minister, as well as migrant crises, a series of natural disasters, and the rise of populism culminating in the 2022 election of Giorgia Meloni, the first woman to lead Italy as prime minister. This second edition of The History of Italy provides readers with an accessible and comprehensive introduction to the long and ever-evolving history of Italy and its people.Through chronological chapters, and helpful study aids like a timeline and biographical sketches, this book traces the history, politics, culture, and religion of Italy, showing how the country became what it is today.

The Russia-Ukraine war that began in 2022 turned the world's attention on Ukraine, the second-largest country in Europe and one of the leading global exporters of wheat and other valuable commodities. Though some Russian leaders have long denied and continue to reject Ukrainian sovereignty, this book presents a comprehensive picture of Ukraine that is both intertwined with and distinct from Russian history. From its days as Kyivan Rus and its inclusion in the Russian Empire to the fall of the Soviet Union, the Euromaidan demonstrations, and the outbreak of war with Russia, Ukraine, as this book demonstrates, has developed its own identity, territory, and culture. With a timeline of events, short biographies of contemporary and historical figures, and a useful annotated bibliography, this book unpacks the historical claims and issues relevant to the conflict with Russia and provides an accessible introduction to Ukraine and its peoples.

Build an understanding of a country undergoing dramatic and accelerating changes in this new revised edition. Taking readers from the Saudi Arabia of pre-Islamic times to the present day, this revised edition in the Histories of Modern Nations series examines how the current efforts to transform the Kingdom fits into the long history of the region. The Arabian Peninsula – the birthplace of Islam – has a long heritage of multiple intersecting civilizations. In recent years, major events in Saudi Arabia have left a mark not only within the region itself but also around the world. The country continues to undergo significant developments, as the government, led by Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman, aims to end its reliance on fossil fuels and build a dynamic society, without bringing into question its authoritarian political system, national security structure, and absolute monarchy.Bring your knowledge up to date with revised information, based on new findings and historiography, on the political, military, religious, economic, and diplomatic history of the country. In addition, this book discusses events such as: – The rise of Muhammad bin Salman – known as MBS – as the new crown prince under his father King Salman, who took the throne in 2015– Vision 2030, a set of reforms designed to create a revived society, a robust economy, and a more vital national state– The Saudi intervention in Yemen as part of the new King’s foreign policy– Goals to diversity the economy from oil to tourism and biotechnology– Reforms impacting the status of women and the roles of the religious police

Build an understanding of a country undergoing dramatic and accelerating changes in this new revised edition. Taking readers from the Saudi Arabia of pre-Islamic times to the present day, this revised edition in the Histories of Modern Nations series examines how the current efforts to transform the Kingdom fits into the long history of the region. The Arabian Peninsula – the birthplace of Islam – has a long heritage of multiple intersecting civilizations. In recent years, major events in Saudi Arabia have left a mark not only within the region itself but also around the world. The country continues to undergo significant developments, as the government, led by Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman, aims to end its reliance on fossil fuels and build a dynamic society, without bringing into question its authoritarian political system, national security structure, and absolute monarchy.Bring your knowledge up to date with revised information, based on new findings and historiography, on the political, military, religious, economic, and diplomatic history of the country. In addition, this book discusses events such as: – The rise of Muhammad bin Salman – known as MBS – as the new crown prince under his father King Salman, who took the throne in 2015– Vision 2030, a set of reforms designed to create a revived society, a robust economy, and a more vital national state– The Saudi intervention in Yemen as part of the new King’s foreign policy– Goals to diversity the economy from oil to tourism and biotechnology– Reforms impacting the status of women and the roles of the religious police

Explore the arts, culture, and history of Italy through this accessibly written second edition. Famous for the Colosseum in Rome, the canals of Venice, the renowned fashion houses of Milan, and the beauty of the Tuscan countryside, Italy is a vibrant tapestry of ancient landmarks and modern industry. In the 21st century, Italian history has been shaped by the transformative political influence of media mogul Silvio Berlusconi, who served multiple terms as prime minister, as well as migrant crises, a series of natural disasters, and the rise of populism culminating in the 2022 election of Giorgia Meloni, the first woman to lead Italy as prime minister. This second edition of The History of Italy provides readers with an accessible and comprehensive introduction to the long and ever-evolving history of Italy and its people.Through chronological chapters, and helpful study aids like a timeline and biographical sketches, this book traces the history, politics, culture, and religion of Italy, showing how the country became what it is today.

Now in its third edition, this new volume of the acclaimed The History of Russia offers a wealth of material on events of the last decade and a half.When first published, Charles Ziegler's The History of Russia was acclaimed as a source of information not easily found elsewhere, and as "clear, balanced, and insightful," by Rajan Menon of Lehigh University. Now Ziegler returns for a third edition, fully updated to be the work of choice for readers looking for an introduction to the history of the world's largest country.The History of Russia: Third Edition moves from the 10th-century founding of Kievan Rus to the tsars to the Communist Era to the war with Ukraine, with particular emphasis on the process by which Vladimir Putin established a fully authoritarian state. In addition to a new chapter on the tumultuous era Russia has seen since the second edition published in 2009, this edition features an updated introduction and an expanded chapter on the return to authoritarianism.

This accessible, narrative account follows Indian history over its 9,000 year trajectory, from the ancient Harappans to today, emphasizing events and issues of the 20th and 21st centuries.Written for high school students and general readers who have little background on the world's largest democracy, this third edition of a popular work provides an objective overview of Indian history, with a particular focus on the modern nation. Approximately half of the book deals with developments since the beginning of the 20th century, with new chapters covering events and issues that made news between 2014 and today.Readers can learn about the Bollywood craze, 21st-century economic growth, and concerns about the safety and equality of women today, as well as about such traditional topics as Buddhism and Hinduism, the Mughal Dynasty, and the British East India Company. Caste politics and the establishment of the Republic of India are covered, as is the life of Mahatma Gandhi. Completely revised and expanded, the third edition features fresh content throughout and includes photographs that were not in the earlier volumes. The Notable Figures section, Appendix of Leaders, timeline, and glossary are also updated, and the bibliography now features electronic resources for students.

A thorough examination of the history of Cuba, now with a fresh update discussing the most recent developments in the country.This historical overview connects significant events from Cuba's past with the country's current social and political changes. Author Clifford L. Staten reviews the changing landscape of Cuba and explores subjects such as the relationship between the domestic and international political economy of Cuba; the successes and failures of Castro's revolution; the importance of the US role in Cuban politics and commerce; and the problems associated with an agricultural fiscal structure based upon sugar.The revised edition includes additional biographies of key figures from recent history and an expanded bibliography of notable resources. Updated content features a look at Cuban politics over the last decade and effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. Other topics include Spanish colonialism, the struggle for independence, Castro's revolution, the Cold War, and the impact of globalization.

From colonial rule to revolution and beyond, this concise history of Nicaragua unpacks the political struggles, economic transformations, and social movements that have shaped the modern nation, offering essential insights into a country defined by resilience and change.Tracing Nicaragua’s past from indigenous civilizations to Spanish conquest, dictatorship, and revolution, the book examines key forces that have shaped its destiny. Discover the rise and fall of the Somoza dynasty, the impact of the agro-export economy, the legacy of the Sandinista revolution, and the country’s complex path to a democratic interlude from 1990 to 2007.This revised edition brings Nicaragua’s story into the present, analyzing recent years of political and social change—including President Daniel Ortega’s shift toward authoritarianism, the contested elections of 2011, 2016, and 2021, the 2018 protests, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and evolving U.S.-Nicaragua relations. Featuring updated timelines, key figures, and essential terms, this book is an indispensable guide to understanding Nicaragua’s past, present, and future.