Primary Sources in World History: Wealth, Power, and Inequality

This two-volume collection of primary documents covers societies across different geographical regions during the last 5,000 years, focusing on the unequal allocation of wealth and power. It reveals that people living at different times and places have used similar methods to achieve similar political and economic objectives, undermining assertions of Western intellectual, cultural, or moral superiority.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

This two-volume compilation of essential primary sources spans societies across diverse geographical regions over the past 5,000 years. While providing a chronologically and geographically comprehensive overview, this reader will primarily delve into a central theme: the unequal distribution of wealth and power within individual societies and between various polities, spanning from small city-states to vast territorial empires. The chosen documents unveil that individuals across different eras and locations have employed similar strategies to attain similar political and economic goals. By highlighting both similarities and differences in ideas and actions, these documents challenge assertions of Western intellectual, cultural, or moral superiority.

Volume I: Historical Contexts

The first volume of this collection offers a historical backdrop, providing insights into the social, political, and economic conditions that shaped various societies throughout the past 5,000 years. It explores the rise and fall of empires, the development of new technologies, and the impact of cultural exchange on the evolution of human civilization. Through a selection of primary sources such as historical texts, archaeological artifacts, and artistic representations, readers gain a deeper understanding of the complex tapestry of human history.

Volume II: Primary Documents

The second volume presents a collection of primary documents that shed light on the experiences and perspectives of individuals living in different societies at different times. These sources include letters, diaries, speeches, and legal documents, offering a firsthand account of historical events, social movements, and cultural practices. By analyzing these documents, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human experiences and the complexities of social interactions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this two-volume compilation of primary sources provides a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of societies across different geographical regions during the last 5,000 years. By highlighting the unequal allocation of wealth and power and the similarities and differences in ideas and actions, it challenges assertions of Western intellectual, cultural, or moral superiority. Through its rich content and analytical approach, this reader offers valuable insights into the complex and fascinating history of human civilization.

Weight: 435g
Dimension: 228 x 152 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538174333