1688: a Global History by John E Wills
This work is a survey of the world on the threshold of modernity and a sweeping narrative of different cultures being drawn together by the pull of trade and violence: a world where spices, silver and slaves made fortunes and ruined lives. The reader is taken on a journey around the world, through Russia, where Tsar Peter is about to launch a coup that will change his country's history forever; to the splendid court of the Sun King in France; to Mexico; to the Sonora desert of North America, where a Jesuit priest and his tribe of Pima Indian converts are about to discover California; to Manila, Jamaica, Australia, South Africa, Siam and to England, where a Dutch king lands in Dorset to begin the Glorious Revolution and fashion the state under which we still live.
Presenting a worldwide view of events occurring in just one year of the 17th century, Wills sets his sights high with a Longitude type of book in the history sphereA professor of history at the University of Southern California, his previous works are mainly studies of China, but also of European involvement therein. What makes this book so enchanting is the intricate detail of the stories, letters, poems and essays of the era. Moreover, when the author begins the tale of each new area, he takes care to update us on the events which have led to the situation that prevails. We learn of Klaas, a Khoikhoi (or Hottentot) chief, being imprisoned on Robben Island, off the South African coast, three centuries before Nelson Mandela suffered the same fate. Indeed, it is surprising how many similarities exist between 1688 and the present day. With his evocative local colour and careful use of context, Wills has produced a fascinating book that skips along at an unrelenting pace and transports you to another age.
John E. Wills is professor of history at the University of Southern California and the author of many acclaimed works in cultural history.
| SKU | Unavailable |
| ISBN 13 | 9781862074132 |
| ISBN 10 | 1862074135 |
| Title | 1688: a Global History |
| Author | John E Wills |
| Condition | Unavailable |
| Binding Type | Hardback |
| Publisher | Granta Books |
| Year published | 2001-01-30 |
| Number of pages | 320 |
| Cover note | Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary. |
| Note | Unavailable |