Primary Sources in World History: Wealth, Power, and Inequality, Since 1500

This two-volume collection of primary documents explores the unequal allocation of wealth and power between societies and polities, revealing similarities and diversities in ideas and actions. It challenges Western intellectual, cultural, and moral superiority and highlights the impact of technological innovations on social, economic, and political inequality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 13 March 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

This two-volume compilation of essential primary sources explores societies that emerged with writing systems across diverse geographical regions over the past 5,000 years. While encompassing a broad spectrum, this reader specifically emphasizes a central theme: the unequal distribution of wealth and power within individual societies and across various polities, spanning from small city-states to vast territorial empires. The documents unveiled that individuals across different eras and locations have employed similar strategies to attain similar political and economic goals. By highlighting both similarities and disparities in ideas and actions, these sources challenge assertions of Western intellectual, cultural, or moral superiority. Furthermore, these readings shed light on the growing disparities resulting from technological innovations, leading to escalating social, economic, political, racial, and gender inequalities. Carefully chosen to provide students with a more profound comprehension of the origins and dynamics of inequalities in societies worldwide, each document is preceded by a concise explanation of its historical context. Presented chronologically, each document is followed by 3 or 4 review questions, offering students an opportunity to assess their grasp of its key points.

Weight: 254g
Dimension: 228 x 152 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538174371