The Essential World History presents a breif, balanced, highly-readable overview of world history that explores common challenges and experiences that unite the human past and that identify key global patterns over time. Thorough coverage of political, economic, social, religious, intellectual, cultural, and military history has been integrated into a chronologically ordered synthesis to help you gain an appreciation and understanding of the distinctive character and development of individual cultures in society.
William J. Duiker Book order (chronological)
William J. Duiker is a former United States Foreign Service officer and Professor of History specializing in East Asia. His work delves deeply into the history and politics of the region, particularly its pivotal figures and historical events. Duiker's research is characterized by its meticulous use of primary sources, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of East Asia's complex past. He has a particular expertise in Vietnam, having spent significant time there during his service.


The magisterial and authoritative biography of one of the towering and mysterious figures of the twentieth century. Ho Chi Minh's epic life helped shape the twentieth century. But never before has he been the subject of a major biography. Now William Duiker has compiled an astonishing work of history that fills this immense void. A New York Times Notable Book and one of the Los Angeles Times Best Books of 2000 - now in paperback!