Nigel Cliff Books
A British historian, biographer, critic, and translator, Nigel Cliff specializes in narrative nonfiction, with a particular focus on cultural history and the history of exploration. His work brings to life the compelling stories of past journeys and discoveries, offering readers insightful perspectives on how these explorations shaped our world. Cliff’s distinctive approach combines rigorous research with engaging storytelling, making complex historical events accessible and captivating.
The Last Crusade. The Epic Voyages of Vasco de Gama
- 560 pages
- 20 hours of reading
The first accessible, authoritative, and complete modern account of Vasco da Gama's historic and audacious attempt, in 1497, to seize the spice routes and re-conquer the Holy Land.
A dramatic account of the life of Cold War pianist Van Cliburn describes his early years as a musical prodigy in Texas and the ways he charmed both American and Russian audiences, helping to ease tensions between the two nations.--Publisher's description
The Last Crusade: The Epic Voyages of Vasco Da Gama
- 560 pages
- 20 hours of reading
Originally published in hardcover as: Holy war. New York: HarperCollins, c2011.
Set against the backdrop of 1498, the narrative follows young captain Vasco da Gama as he embarks on an unprecedented journey from Portugal to the Indies, navigating around Africa and across the Indian Ocean. His expedition, marked by blood-red Crusader crosses, occurs during a time of heightened tensions between Christianity and Islam. Over two pivotal voyages lasting six years, da Gama engages in fierce maritime conflicts that reshape the destinies of Europe, Africa, and Asia, ultimately altering the course of history.
Holy War
How Vasco Da Gama's Epic Voyages Turned the Tide in a Centuries-Old Clash of Civilizations
- 560 pages
- 20 hours of reading
The narrative offers a radical reinterpretation of Vasco da Gama's voyages, framing them as pivotal moments in the historical conflict between Christianity and Islam. It delves into the complexities of cultural encounters and the profound implications of these explorations on global dynamics. Through rich historical detail, the book explores the motivations, challenges, and consequences faced by da Gama, shedding light on the broader impact of his journeys on both European and Islamic worlds.
'You will hear it for yourselves, and it will surely fill you with wonder...' In this selection from Marco Polo's famous travel book, the intrepid Venetian describes the customs of India, recounts the story of the king who died eighty-four times and explains how to retrieve diamonds from snake-infested caves... Introducing Little Black Classics: 80 books for Penguin's 80th birthday. Little Black Classics celebrate the huge range and diversity of Penguin Classics, with books from around the world and across many centuries. They take us from a balloon ride over Victorian London to a garden of blossom in Japan, from Tierra del Fuego to 16th-century California and the Russian steppe. Here are stories lyrical and savage; poems epic and intimate; essays satirical and inspirational; and ideas that have shaped the lives of millions. Marco Polo (1254-1324). Polo's Travels are available in Penguin Classics.
