A Brief History of Europe

You’re holding a book by the well-known historian John Hirst, translated into 12 languages. It will replace many books and will be useful both for those just beginning to get acquainted with European history and for readers who already know the subject well. Read it in a single day—remember it for life!

Once young Europe lagged behind many ancient and powerful civilizations. From this simply and cleverly written book, you’ll learn how Europe went from small city-states and villages lost in the forests to a community of countries that shapes the rest of the world. How, with the help of gunpowder invented by the Chinese and the gold taken from the Aztecs, did Europe manage to dictate its will to China and America? How did rationalism of ancient culture, the mysticism of Jewish prophets, and the ferocity of German warriors come together?

Concise yet without oversimplifying, with a convenient structure and vivid sketches of famous people, unique ideas, and major events—this will help you better understand the world you live in.