About Time: A History of Civilization in Twelve Clocks

A History of the World in Twelve Maps is a fascinating book that explores the power of timekeeping and its impact on human civilization. It narrates the history of timekeeping from ancient sundials to modern GPS, highlighting the inventions that have shaped our lives and world. The book also shows how clocks have helped us navigate the globe and build empires but have also taken us to the brink of destruction.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 03 February 2022
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

A truly mesmerizing masterpiece, this remarkable work of history stands as the finest I have encountered in a long time. Authored by Jerry Brotton, A History of the World in Twelve Maps delves into the captivating realm of timekeeping, offering a profound exploration of its essence and profound symbolism. Far beyond mere fascination for horologists, this book unfolds as an ingenious meditation on the nature and profound implications of timekeeping itself.

Richard Holmes, in his endorsement, aptly describes it as "not merely an horologist's delight, but an ingenious meditation on the nature and symbolism of time-keeping itself." The measurement of time has always held a vital significance in human civilization, spanning from the ancient Roman sundials to the emergence of GPS. However, while we remain acutely aware of the time on a daily basis, are we fully cognizant of the immense power wielded by clocks in the hands of governments, military leaders, and business magnates? This captivating book, penned by David Rooney, presents a sweeping narrative of timekeeping and civilization, unfolding in twelve concise chapters. Throughout its course, readers are introduced to the most epochal inventions in horological history, ranging from medieval water clocks to Renaissance hourglasses, and from stock-exchange timestamps to satellites orbiting our Earth.

Through this captivating journey, we discover the profound ways in which clocks have facilitated global exploration, aided in the construction of empires, and even brought us to the brink of destruction. It is a story that intertwines the narrative of time with our very own story, shedding light on the profound impact that timekeeping has had on our existence and the world we inhabit.

Weight: 236g
Dimension: 129 x 199 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241370513