ABSTRACT

World History: Journeys from Past to Present uses common themes to present an integrated and comprehensive survey of human history from its origins to the present day. By weaving together thematic and regional perspectives in coherent chronological narratives, Goucher and Walton transform the overwhelming sweep of the human past into a truly global story that is relevant to the contemporary issues of our time.

Revised and updated throughout, the second edition of this innovative textbook combines clear chronological progression with thematically focused chapters. In this volume, chapters are divided into three parts as follows:

PART 1. EMERGENCE (Human origins to 500 CE)

PART 2. ORDER (1 CE-1500 CE)

PART 3. CONNECTIONS (500-1600 CE)

The expanded new edition features an impressive full-color design with a host of illustrations, maps and primary source excerpts integrated throughout. Chapter opening timelines supply context for the material ahead, while end of chapter questions and annotated additional resources provide students with the tools for independent study. Each chapter and part boasts introductory and summary essays that guide the reader in comprehending the relevant theme.

In addition, the companion website offers a range of resources including an interactive historical timeline, an indispensable study skills section for students, tips for teaching and learning thematically, and PowerPoint slides, lecture material and discussion questions in a password protected area for instructors. This textbook provides a basic introduction for all students of World History, incorporating thematic perspectives that encourage critical thinking, link to globally relevant contemporary issues, and stimulate further study.

part I|115 pages

Emergence

chapter 1|27 pages

Human migration

World history in motion

chapter 2|30 pages

Technology and environment

Transformations in world history

chapter 3|24 pages

Cities and city life in world history

chapter 4|29 pages

Ideas and power

Goddesses, kings, and sages

part I|2 pages

Summary

part II|141 pages

Order

chapter 5|29 pages

The spread of world religions

Missionaries, merchants, and monarchs

chapter 6|27 pages

Making a living

World economies

chapter 7|27 pages

Family matters

Gender, family, and household

chapter 8|27 pages

Ties that bind

Lineage, clientage, and caste

chapter 9|26 pages

Early empires

part II|2 pages

Summary

part III|87 pages

Connections

chapter 10|32 pages

Connections across land and sea

chapter 11|31 pages

Cultural memory

Transmitting traditions

chapter 12|19 pages

Commerce and change

Creating a world system

part III|2 pages

Summary