A New History of the World

A very interesting and captivating History Book by Peter Frankopan. Indeed it is a new history of the world as it tries to look at the events from another perspective. As most of the western world focuses on the development of the West, this book turns back to the place where it all began. 

Objective and, I believe easy to understand, without losing historical accuracy. I found it very enlightening bringing into focus events from a perspective I might not have thought of. I made sense of the games and strategies that some events were part of.

Power Shifting

A very detailed account of most of the influential moments of world development, the book moves through time just as power has. The centres of power from the ancient empires to today’s superpowers have shifted and moved back and forth. Most of these power plays have taken place along the Silk Roads. That is what the book is looking at.

I believe it is a great book for those interested in this part of the world. Also, the book makes sure that it portrays the events in a respectful and reasonable manner. Maybe it is at times too detailed but what do you expect from a historically accurate depiction of world history.

From East to West

I found it beautifully written and a good instrument to look into the East and the role it played throughout history. And how certain events or concepts still affect today’s geopolitical climate. As usual looking back in time can help a great deal to understand what we’re looking forward to.

Also, it is delightful to look at the Middle East in its Golden Age when it was an example of diversity and acceptance. The way those Peoples and cultures have evolved is fascinating I believe. The book is another insight into the affairs of the East, Near and Far alike.

The Road to…

The book is structured on chapters called The Road to Gold, or to Silver, or to Revolution. This way of separating phases and events and connecting one to another is great. You get a feeling of moving from one territory to another along with the ages. As history shifts its focus so does the chapter.

What I found interesting is how the Silk Roads are not only focused on the Eurasian routes. As time goes by, you travel to the Americas alongside the explorers. You get the gist of that part of history and how it changed the world back home, in Europe.

The world jumping from one discovery to another and evolving further.

Worth a try I think.

Bis bald!

IcD

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