This book travels through the history of the whole world, from the emergence of hominids millions of years ago, up to the present day, in a huge compilation of facts, features and images.
The first section records significant world events, presented as chronologically listed entries, running down each spread. Covered are wars, scientific discoveries, art and architecture, births, deaths, and other major milestones. Juxtaposed with the timeline, on the same spread, are narratives and features on broader aspects of history. As an example, one spread on ‘Early Civilizations 5000–1500 BCE’ has the timeline on the right, and describes the Egyptian and Minoan civilizations in general on the left. Additionally, ‘box’ features take a close look at ‘Egyptian Pyramids’ and a Neolithic Scottish settlement, dating from the same period.
The second section of the book is dedicated to individual countries and continental regions. According to its historical and current importance, a country may be accorded a few spreads (for example, the USA), or a few countries may be grouped as one region on one spread (for example, East Africa). The treatment is similar to Section I: timelines of key events, general history, and micro features. High-quality maps provide extra value. The well-organized presentation of such a vast subject, backed by hundreds of photographs, maps and illustrations makes The Compact Timeline of Word History a comprehensive ready-reckoner for lay readers, as well as students.
