World History through Case Studies: Historical Skills in Practice

This textbook demystifies world history through diverse case studies, examining why historians disagree and how their debates remain relevant today. It challenges the idea of a tidy past and encourages students to think critically about historical narratives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 19 September 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This groundbreaking textbook unravels the complexities of world history through a diverse array of captivating case studies. Each chapter delves into an event, person, or place commonly featured in comprehensive textbooks, spanning from prehistoric times to the present and across the globe. From the enigmatic Kennewick Man to the fierce gladiators and the global phenomenon of modern-day soccer, and even the intricacies of globalization, the book goes beyond the surface, exploring the reasons behind historical disagreements and their enduring relevance in today's world.

Through a unique approach of "unwrapping the textbook," author David Eaton unveils the thought processes of historians, revealing the messy and nuanced nature of the past that contradicts the tidy narratives often presented in textbooks. Thought-provoking questions such as whether ancient Greece was influenced by contact with Egypt serve as a gateway into the profound disagreements that history professors may have on even fundamental narratives. Moreover, the book demonstrates how historical interpretations can be shaped by contemporary concerns, highlighting the interconnectedness of the past and the present.

World History through Case Studies not only sheds light on these historiographical debates but also connects them to the essential skills required by historians. By illuminating these debates and their significance, the book demonstrates how the study of history remains relevant and valuable to a new generation of students and teachers. It serves as a valuable resource for educators seeking to engage students in critical thinking, promote historical understanding, and equip them with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of the past and shape the future.

Weight: 478g
Dimension: 235 x 158 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350042612