Age of Empires

Empires have been a feature of the political landscape for over 500 years, and this book shows how maps, chronologies, settlers, administrators, and commerce records explain the global civilization of today.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 376 pages
Publication date: 23 January 2020
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

Empires have a profound and enduring impact on our collective imagination, conjuring up images of great explorers like Stanley, Livingstone, and the colonial gallery of adventurers. The Spanish Conquistadors' pursuit of gold and silver, and the Dutch heritage of trade in the East Indies, are just a few examples of the many empires that have shaped world history.

For over five centuries, empires have played a central role in the political landscape, leaving an indelible mark on global civilization. While some countries, such as Germany and Italy, experienced fleeting dreams of empire, others, like the United States and the Soviet Union, engaged in imperialist activities but never officially adopted it as a state policy. The dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman Empires has somewhat obscured the imperial dimensions of these states.

This book aims to explore the intricate relationship between exploration, conquest, settlement, commerce, and other aspects of the Age of Empires and their role in shaping the global civilization of today. By examining the maps, chronologies, records, and financial statements that characterized this era, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex networks of power, trade, and cultural exchange that formed the foundation of the modern world.

The Age of Empires witnessed the rise and fall of numerous empires, each with its own unique characteristics and legacies. The Spanish Empire, for instance, expanded its dominion across vast territories in the Americas and the Caribbean, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural and political landscape of the region. The Ottoman Empire, on the other hand, ruled over a vast expanse of territory in Southeast Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, and its influence can be seen in the architectural and cultural heritage of many countries in the region.

In addition to the empires themselves, the Age of Empires also saw the emergence of new technologies, such as the compass, telescope, and printing press, which facilitated exploration, communication, and the dissemination of knowledge. These innovations played a crucial role in shaping the global economy and culture, and they helped to bridge the gap between different regions of the world.

However, the Age of Empires was not without its challenges and controversies. The expansion of empires often led to the displacement and exploitation of indigenous populations, as well as the spread of diseases and cultural clashes. The colonial era, in particular, was marked by a complex web of power dynamics, with European powers exerting control over vast territories and resources in the name of imperialism.

Despite these challenges, the legacy of the Age of Empires continues to be felt today. The globalized world we live in is a product of the interconnectedness and interdependence of different empires and cultures. The imperialist policies and practices of the past have left a lasting impact on the political and economic systems of many countries, and they continue to shape the international relations of the world.

In conclusion, empires have played a pivotal role in shaping the world we live in today. They evoke powerful images of exploration, conquest, and cultural exchange, and they have left an indelible mark on global civilization. This book aims to explore the intricate relationship between the Age of Empires and the global civilization of today, shedding light on the complex networks of power, trade, and cultural exchange that formed the foundation of the modern world.

Weight: 360g
Dimension: 207 x 116 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500295496