Showroom Sample History & Culture Bargain Book Box DSH916

Showroom Sample History & Culture Bargain Book Box

Journey through time and explore the rich tapestry of human history, from ancient civilizations to pivotal modern events, and delve into diverse cultural insights. These brand-new books are showroom samples, meaning they may have price stickers on the cover and some minor shelf wear, but they are otherwise pristine. The image provided displays the actual books you will receive, offering a captivating window into the past and present.

1. Criminal Britain: A Photographic History of the Country's Most Notorious Crimes
   Step into the dark annals of British crime with this evocative photographic history, documenting the most infamous criminal cases. From chilling murders to daring heists, each image tells a story of societal upheaval and the pursuit of justice. It’s a compelling look at the country’s underbelly and its impact on culture. A gripping visual record of notorious historical events.

2. Perfect Wives in Ideal Homes: The Story of Women in the 1950s by Virginia Nicholson
   Step back into the post-war era and explore the complex reality of women's lives in the 1950s, beyond the idealized domestic façade. This insightful work examines societal expectations, evolving roles, and the subtle rebellions beneath the surface. It offers a nuanced look at the domestic and social landscape of a pivotal decade. A revealing social history.

3. Iconicon: A Journey Around the Landmark Buildings of Contemporary Britain by John Grindrod
   Embark on a fascinating architectural tour across contemporary Britain, exploring its most iconic and often controversial buildings. This book delves into the stories behind the structures, their designs, and their impact on the landscape and national identity. It’s a captivating look at the interplay of history, art, and urban development. A unique perspective on modern British heritage.

4. Sicily: A Short History from the Ancient Greeks to Cosa Nostra by John Julius Norwich
   Discover the tumultuous and captivating history of Sicily, a crossroads of civilizations shaped by ancient Greeks, Byzantines, Normans, and the pervasive influence of the Mafia. This concise yet comprehensive account charts the island's unique cultural blend and its dramatic past. It’s an engaging journey through millennia of conquest and adaptation. A masterful overview of Mediterranean history.

5. 1917: Russia's Year of Revolution by Roy Bainton
   Witness the pivotal year of 1917 as Russia plunges into revolution, forever altering the course of global history. This book vividly recounts the events, key figures, and societal upheavals that led to the collapse of the Tsarist regime and the rise of Bolshevism. It’s an essential guide to understanding a transformative period. A compelling narrative of political and social cataclysm.

6. Michael Faraday and the Electrical Century by Iwan Rhys Morus
   Explore the revolutionary life and groundbreaking discoveries of Michael Faraday, whose pioneering work in electromagnetism laid the foundation for the electrical age. This book delves into his scientific brilliance, his impact on technology, and the broader societal changes sparked by his innovations. It’s a compelling portrait of a visionary who electrified the world. A fascinating account of scientific genius.

7. Defiance: The Life and Choices of Lady Anne Barnard by Stephen Taylor
   Uncover the extraordinary life of Lady Anne Barnard, an indomitable figure who navigated the complexities of 18th-century British society and colonial South Africa. This biography explores her intellectual courage, her artistic pursuits, and her defiant spirit in a patriarchal world. It’s a captivating portrait of a woman who shaped her own destiny. A revealing look at an overlooked historical figure.

8. To Win a War: 1918 The Year of Victory by John Terraine
   Relive the decisive final year of World War I, when Allied forces launched their ultimate offensives to secure victory. This detailed account examines the strategic brilliance, immense sacrifice, and sheer determination that led to the armistice. It offers a compelling analysis of the challenges and triumphs of a pivotal period. A meticulous study of military history.

9. The Lessons of History by Will & Ariel Durant
   Distill the accumulated wisdom of human civilization in this concise masterwork, summarizing the major themes and patterns from thousands of years of recorded history. The Durants offer profound insights into the rise and fall of empires, the nature of progress, and the enduring human condition. It’s a timeless guide to understanding our past and navigating our future. A classic for all serious readers.

10. Endurance: The True Story of Shackleton's Incredible Voyage to the Antarctic by Alfred Lansing
    Experience the harrowing, awe-inspiring true story of Ernest Shackleton's legendary Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition and his crew's miraculous survival against insurmountable odds. Stranded in the icy wilderness, their resilience, leadership, and determination defined human endurance. This gripping account is a testament to the unyielding spirit of adventure. A timeless saga of courage and survival.

11. The Roy Strong Diaries 2004-2015 by Roy Strong
    Gain an intimate, witty, and often acerbic glimpse into the life of Sir Roy Strong, renowned art historian and former museum director, through his personal diaries. Covering a decade of his later years, this book reveals his observations on public life, culture, gardening, and private reflections. It offers a candid and entertaining portrait of a British institution. A sharp and engaging memoir.

12. An Entertainment for Angels: Electricity in the Enlightenment by Patricia Fara
    Uncover the electrifying story of electricity's emergence as both a scientific marvel and a public spectacle during the Enlightenment. This book reveals how early experiments captivated audiences and challenged perceptions of the natural world. It explores the interplay of scientific discovery, popular culture, and philosophical thought. A brilliant look at the dawn of modern science.

13. Amsterdam: A History of the World's Most Liberal City by Russell Shorto
    Explore the captivating history of Amsterdam, from its humble beginnings as a fishing village to its enduring legacy as a beacon of tolerance and innovation. This book intertwines urban development, political struggles, and cultural shifts. It unravels the city's unique spirit and its profound influence on global ideas of freedom. A vibrant portrait of a truly revolutionary city.

14. A Short History of the Middle East by Gordon Kerr
    Gain a concise yet comprehensive overview of the complex history of the Middle East, from ancient empires to the modern era, grappling with key political, religious, and social developments. This accessible guide provides essential context and examines ongoing conflicts and transformations. It’s a vital introduction to a region of immense global significance. A clear guide to a pivotal region.

15. A Brief History of Misogyny: The World's Oldest Prejudice by Jack Holland
    Trace the pervasive and ancient roots of misogyny, examining its manifestations across cultures, religions, and historical periods. This book offers a comprehensive yet concise overview of the world's oldest prejudice, and its enduring impact. It’s a powerful and essential exploration of a deeply rooted societal problem. A crucial read for understanding gender inequality.

16. Witchfinders: A Seventeenth-Century English Tragedy by Malcolm Gaskill
    Delve into the chilling true story of the English witch hunts in the 17th century, revealing the paranoia, social tensions, and tragic injustices that fueled the accusations. This gripping historical account examines the lives of both the accused and their persecutors. It's a poignant exploration of fear, belief, and the dark side of human nature. A haunting and meticulous historical study.

17. The Vikings: The Last Pagans or the First Modern Europeans? by Jonathan Clements
    Explore the complex legacy of the Vikings, challenging common stereotypes and revealing their multifaceted roles as raiders, traders, explorers, and nation-builders. This book examines their impact on Europe, their culture, and their eventual transition from paganism. It offers a nuanced look at a powerful and transformative period. A compelling re-evaluation of a legendary people.

18. Lizzie Siddal: The Tragedy of a Pre-Raphaelite Supermodel by Lucinda Hawksley
    Uncover the tragic life and enduring influence of Elizabeth Siddal, the muse, model, and artist who became an icon of the Pre-Raphaelite movement. This biography explores her struggles with illness, her artistic aspirations, and her complex relationships. It’s a poignant look at the intersections of art, fame, and mental health in Victorian England. A compelling portrait of a woman ahead of her time.