The panorama of European history from antiquity to the present day. In this book, the distinguished Australian historian, John Hirst, using maps, diagrams, and images, offers a perceptive yet humorous account of the evolution of one of the most important human civilizations. Organized into chapters, the book covers various aspects of European history, from forms of governance, the origin and richness of languages, the power games between popes and emperors to the raids and conquests that shaped the continent's identity. The book you will read in an afternoon, but remember for a lifetime. OVER 600,000 COPIES WORLDWIDE. THE PRESS WROTE A delightful, condensed piece of history. The Age Small in size, but wise and enlightening. The Sydney Morning Herald Lively, clear, and insightful. Australian Book Review