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Brings together brief biographies of 100 women and men whose activities in the 19th century laid the foundations of modern China and the country's transition from dynastic empireto republic.

From the ancient Nile Valley to the savannas of medieval West Africa, the highlands of Ethiopia and on to the forests, lakes and grasslands to the south, African civilizations have given rise to some of the world's most impressive kingdoms. Yet Africa's history is often little known beyond the devastation wrought by the slave trade and European colonial rule. In this groundbreaking new book, nine leading historians of Africa take a fresh look at these great kingdoms and empires over five thousand years of recorded history. How was kingship forged in Africa and how did it operate? Was dynastic power maintained by consent or by coercion? Did kings - and queens - display and project that power for all to see, or did they hide it away, as beneath the fringed crowns that concealed the faces of sacred Yoruba rulers? In what ways have African peoples themselves recorded, celebrated and critiqued the deeds of their kings? Great Kingdoms of Africa explores some of the most important questions in the continent's deep past

Forty articles expertly curated by biographer Andrew Robinson provide an unrivalled account of the lives and personalities behind the greatest scientific breakthroughs of all time. Who made us see the atom, our minds, our planet and the universe afresh? How did we uncover the mysteries of life on earth? What next? The theories, discoveries and inventions of scientists have revolutionized our consciousness. Think of gravity, evolution, relativity, radioactivity and the Big Bang; electric motors, vaccines, nuclear power and computers. Behind these breakthroughs lie the personal stories of men and women with vision and determination: singular thinkers who defied adversity in their quest for answers. This book tells the remarkable lives of the pioneers - from Galileo, Faraday and Darwin, through Pasteur and Marie Curie, to Einstein, Freud and Turing. Written by an international team of distinguished scientists, historians and science writers, it will intrigue budding scientists; those fascinated by the lives of great individuals; and anyone curious to know how we came to understand the exterior world and the pulse of life within.

From the team at Monocle, this is a practical travel guide to Portugal, featuring unique insights and stunning images throughout. Following in the footsteps of the hugely successful The Monocle Book of Italy and The Monocle Book of the Nordics, Monocle’s latest title turns its focus to Portugal in an exciting new series of country-specific books. A handbook in feel and tone, this practical guide will transport you to the sun-dappled hills of Lisbon and the winding streets of Porto as well as lesser-known locales ranging from the Alentejo region, with its plentiful vineyards, to the dramatic landscapes of the Azores. Discover Monocle’s favorite places to stay, eat and shop—stop off at an elegant palácio, indulge in a family-run tasca and scour the streets for the creamiest pastéis de nata—and make exciting cross-country trips (whether by car, boat or horse). You’ll also be introduced to the country’s rich culture, including the history of Portugal’s vibrant visual identity and the folks at the heart of it all. There’s even a chapter dedicated to those thinking of relocating to Portugal, including case studies on those who’ve made the move, tips on the best neighborhoods to invest in, and recommendations for architects and interior designers. So join in, hit the tiles and explore this fascinating country in Portugal: The Monocle Handbook.

An essential primer on twenty-four of the most significant revolutions from the 17th century to the present day, narrated by leading historians from around the world.

A gloriously illustrated journey through Russia along the length of the Trans- Siberian railway.

Danny Dodo uncovers the mystery behind the disappearances of iconic species.

The story of thirteen Empires, showing their key role in the foundation of today's global civilization.

A critical history of the major themes and accomplishments of well-known and obscure African art over the past fifty years examines artists and the new avenues of creative expression in post-colonial Africa.