Discover how the modern world came to be with this easy-to-follow and up-to-date history companion Want to get a taste of the entirety of human history in a single book? With World History For Dummies, you'll get an overview of the history of, well, everything, from the Neanderthal experience to the latest historical developments of the 21st century. Re-live history from your armchair as you ride into battle alongside Roman generals, prepare Egyptian pharaohs for the afterlife, and learn from the great Greek poets and philosophers. Written in the easy-to-digest style the For Dummies series is famous for, you'll discover: How religion, philosophy, and science shaped, and were shaped by, the great figures of history The human consequences of warfare, from historical battles to more modern conflicts from the 20th century What's influencing events in the 21st century, from climate change to new regimes and economies World History For Dummies is the perfect gift for the lifelong learner who wants to brush up on their world history knowledge. It's also an indispensable resource for AP World History students looking for a supplemental reference to help them with their studies.

Go deeper than the Black History you may think you know! Black American History For Dummies reveals the terrors and struggles and celebrates the triumphs of Black Americans. This handy book goes way beyond what you may have studied in school, digging into the complexities and the intrigues that make up Black America. From slavery and the Civil Rights movement to Black Wall Street, Juneteenth, redlining, and Black Lives Matter, this book offers an accessible resource for understanding the facts and events critical to Black history in America. The history of Black Americans is the history of Americans; Americans dance to Black music, read Black literature, watch Black movies, and whether they know it or not reap the benefits of the vibrant political, athletic, and sociological contributions of Black Americans. With this book, you can dive into history, culture, and beyond. See how far there's yet to go in the approach to studying Black American culture and ending racism. Get the authoritative story on the growth and evolution of Black America from slavery, Reconstruction, Jim Crow, the Civil Rights era through to today Discover the Black artists, musicians, athletes, and leaders who have made the United States what it is Develop a fuller understanding of concerns about police brutality and other front-and-center race issues Find out how every aspect of American life connects to Black history Black American History For Dummies is for anyone who needs to learn or re-learn the true history about Black Americans.

The longest-reigning monarch in European history! If the news about Harry, William, Kate, Meghan, and the rest of the British royals has you wondering about how this latest generation of princes, princesses, dukes, and duchesses got their start, you're not alone. Queen Elizabeth II For Dummies takes you on a fascinating journey through the life of Great Britain's longest-serving monarch. You'll find revealing stories about Queen Elizabeth II's family background, her childhood, early ascension to the throne, and her role during times of national crisis and triumph. The book combines must-know facts about the monarchy with details of the remarkable woman who has held the crown for over 68 years (and counting). You'll also read about: Where shows like The Crown stay true-to-life and where they take artistic liberties with historical fact Queen Elizabeth II's relationship with Prince Charles, the late Prince Phillip, Princess Diana, and the thousands of famous figures she has encountered during her reign The subtle and at times controversial role of a hereditary Head of State in a democracy Perfect for anyone with an interest in the monarchy, British governance, power and society, leadership, or the resurgence of the British monarchy in popular culture, Queen Elizabeth II For Dummies is a cracking read full of trivia, secrets, and history that puts one of the most central figures of the 20th and 21st centuries in the palm of your hand.

Praise for the 1st Edition "Easy to read yet filled with facts and information, this is a solid reference guide with everything for the beginner - and perhaps something for the more experienced too." - Family History Monthly "There is a lot of good advice in this book for those starting out." - Ancestors Navigate your way through your family's past Interested in family history? Keen to discover who your ancestors really were? Want to find out more from the comfort of your own home? If so, this book is for you. Walking you through the process of researching, organising and presenting your family tree online, this expert guide makes it simple. So what are you waiting for? Get plugged in and start tracking down your ancestors today! Lay the groundwork - take the first steps on your genealogical journey and start searching for evidence Find out about your ancestors - discover who your predecessors were and where they came from Get to grips with research tools - find the best online and offline archives and dig deeper into your family's past Present your results effectively - compile your findings into a family tree and create a place to host your material online Open the book and find: What clues you can get from photos, letters, diaries and your relatives The best genealogy websites in the UK and around the world How to get the most out of archives and documents Techniques for creating family history charts on your computer The advantages of coordinating your hunt with other researchers Ways to share research online Tips and tricks for building a family history web page Learn to: Get the most out of genealogy websites and resources Store and organise information on yourcomputer Create your family tree and host it online

A wild ride through Canadian history, fully revised and updated

This new edition of "Canadian History For Dummies" takes readers on a thrilling ride through Canadian history, from indigenous native cultures and early French and British settlements through Paul Martin's shaky minority government. This timely update features all the latest, up-to-the-minute findings in historical and archeological research. In his trademark irreverent style, Will Ferguson celebrates Canada's double-gold in hockey at the 2002 Olympics, investigates Jean Chretien's decision not to participate in the war in Iraq, and dissects the recent sponsorship scandal.

Your complete guide to understanding the U.S. Constitution. Want to make sense of the U.S. Constitution? This new edition walks you through this revered document, explaining how the articles and amendments came to be and how they have guided legislators, judges, and presidents--and sparked ongoing debates along the way. You'll get the lowdown on all the big issues--from separation of church and state to impeachment to civil rights--that continue to affect Americans' daily lives. Plus, you'll find out about U.S. Constitution concepts and their origins, the different approaches to interpretation, and how the document has changed over the past 200+ years. Inside, you'll find fresh examples of Supreme Court Rulings such as same sex marriage and Healthcare Acts such as Obamacare. Explore hot topics like what it takes to be elected Commander in Chief, the functions of the House and Senate, how Supreme Court justices are appointed, and so much more. Trace the evolution of the Constitution Recognize the power of the U.S. Supreme Court Get details on recent Supreme Court decisions Find new examples of the Bill of Rights Constitutional issues are dominating the news--and now you can join the discussion with the help of U.S. Constitution For Dummies.

An ideal double-book package covering the history of Great Britain and the First World War. The History For Dummies collection includes the titles British History For Dummies and First World War For Dummies. Putting history into a perspective, British History For Dummies is an engaging, entertaining and educational trip through time, packing in equal parts fun and facts. Includes an 8 page colour insert. From the Somme to Gallipoli to the home front, First World War For Dummies provides an authoritative, accessible, and engaging introduction to the War to End All Wars. Increase your knowledge of Great Britain and one of the most fundamental events of the 20th Century.

Looking to ally yourself with World War II knowledge? More than 75 years after its end, World War II remains one of the most devastating and impactful events in human history. It was a global war, and the nations that fought it employed every available resource, harnessing both technology and people to one purpose. Today, we remember WWII for its battles, tragedies, and horrors, but also for its outcome: a greater good that triumphed over evil. The breadth of World War II facts and history can be overwhelming, which is why World War II For Dummies is the perfect book for any reader, from history buffs to WWII novices. Full of accurate and easy-to-understand information (so you don't have to speak military to comprehend), this book will help you explore a war that defined and shaped the world we live in today. You'll discover all the players--individuals as well as nations--who participated in the war and the politics that drove them. Battle by battle, you'll find out how the Axis powers initially took control of the war and how the Allies fought back to win the day. World War II for Dummies also covers: The origins and causes of World War II The rise of Adolf Hitler and the Third Reich How the war was handled at home Germany's invasion of Poland, France, Denmark, Norway, Belgium, and Luxembourg Great Britain's refusal to surrender after 42 days of German aerial attack The United States' entrance into the war after Japan bombed Pearl Harbor The Allied invasion of Normandy (D-Day) Germany's last-ditch effort to stop the Allies at the Battle of the Bulge The use of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki Become an expert on this historical catalyst with World War II For Dummies--grab your copy today. P.S. If you think this book seems familiar, you're probably right. The Dummies team updated the cover and design to give the book a fresh feel, but the content is the same as the previous release of World War II For Dummies (9780764553523). The book you see here shouldn't be considered a new or updated product. But if you're in the mood to learn something new, check out some of our other books. We're always writing about new topics!

Don't miss a moment of U.S. history The United States is undergoing a period of intense political and social change. From the rise of the Tea Party, to social media's effect on American life and politics, this new edition fills in the gaps of this Nation's story. Award-winning political journalist and history writer Steve Wiegand guides you through the events that shaped our nation, from pre-Columbian civilizations to the 21st century. The explorers, the wars, the leaders, and the eras are all fully explored and explained, demonstrating how the past influences the future. Explore the deepening divide between the very wealthy and the poor and middle class Get to know the deep and bitter divisions between political parties and even geographic regions of the country, including the 2016 election results Understand the country's delicate--and precarious--position as the world's preeminent economic, military, and political power. Get online access to quizzes that help you master the content for every chapter U.S. History For Dummies, 4th Edition makes U.S. history accessible for students and lifelong learners alike.

Is your knowledge of The Crusades less than tip-top? Maybe you're curious about Columbus, or you're desperate to read about the Black Death in all its gory detail? Whatever your starting point, this expert guide has it all - from kings, knights and anti-Popes, to invasion, famine, the Magna Carta and Joan of Arc (and a few rebellious peasants thrown in for good measure ). Get ready for a rip-roaring ride through the political, religious and cultural life of the Middle Ages, one of the most talked-about periods in history.

Medieval History for Dummies includes:

Part I: The Early Middle AgesChapter 1: The Middle Ages: When, Where, What, Who?Chapter 2: The end of Rome and the not so 'Dark Ages'.Chapter 3: Angles, Saxons and Feudalism.Chapter 4: The Carolingians grab their chance.Chapter 5: Charlemagne - A new empire is born.

Part II: The Making of EuropeChapter 6: The (Holy Roman) Empire Strikes Back.Chapter 7: East Meets West: Islam in the Western Mediterranean.Chapter 8: The Vikings: A threat from the north.Chapter 9: Schism: The Church splits itself in two.Chapter 10: The Normans: The 'real' Middle Ages begin.

Part III: 'Holy War': Crusading at home and abroad.Chapter 11: Crusade: A call to arms.Chapter 12: The First CrusadeChapter 13: England vs France & Pope vs EmperorChapter 14: The Second Crusade & The 'Crusades at Home'Chapter 15: Richard vs Saladin: The Third CrusadeChapter 16: The later Crusades and other failures.

Part IV: Parliament, Priories, Provisions & PlagueChapter 17: John, Henry, Rudolf & Edward.Chapter 18: Monks & Merchants: The new power brokersChapter 19: The Papacy on Tour: Avignon and the Anti-PopesChapter 20: 'God's Judgement?': The Black Death

Part V: The End of the Middle and the start of discovery.Chapter 21: One Hundred Years of WarChapter 22: The Peasants are RevoltingChapter 23: Agincourt, Joan of Arc & the French recoveryChapter 24: Columbus & The New World

Part VI: The Part of TensChapter 25: Ten Rubbish KingsChapter 26: Ten Curious Medieval PastimesChapter 27: Ten Great CastlesChapter 28: Ten People Who Changed The WorldChapter 29: Ten Great Books (To read next)

This book is a riotous, irreverent account of the people and events that have shaped Britain. Always getting those kings and queens confused? Never sure what happened when? Then you need this book. Inside you'll find rip-roaring stories of power-mad kings, executions, invasions, high treason, global empire building, and forbidden love - not bad for a nation of stiff upper lips! * Revised and expanded to include the historical parliamentary elections of 2010 and the British mission in Afghanistan * Accompanied by access to a timeline and 'Who's Who in British History' section on dummies.com * This new edition contains an 8-page color insert so you can see who, what and where the ensuing historical action takes place

It's time for the ladies--the First Ladies, that is--to get their time in the spotlight What does a First Lady do? What makes a First Lady successful? If you've always wanted to know, this is the place to come to for the answers! This reference has the inside scoop on all the First Ladies, including Michelle Obama's campaigns for healthy eating and Jackie Kennedy's emphasis on art and culture. In First Ladies For Dummies, you'll find out how these women's values, initiatives, and style have influenced all our lives, and how they've become true role models for generations. With the detailed biographies and personal profiles in First Ladies For Dummies, you'll gain a well-rounded knowledge of the United States' 47 First Ladies. From Martha to Melania, from Jackie to Dr. Jill, and everyone in between, every First Lady has left her stamp on the White House, in the Rose Garden, and in history, and this book covers it all. It includes: An historical context for a deeper understanding of the world these First Ladies lived in Accounts of their childhoods and early lives to learn who these women were before they stepped foot in the White House Each First Lady's interests and achievements Whether you're a history fanatic or just curious about these highly accomplished women, you'll find lots of fun facts about them in First Ladies For Dummies. Pick up your copy to be in the know!

Take a walk through history with this guide for lifelong learners The American Civil War is one of the most fascinating and impactful periods in American history. Besides bringing about the end of slavery, the war had many important economic and social effects that continue to shape the history and present-day realities of the American people. In American Civil War For Dummies, you'll get an accessible, bird's-eye view of one of history's greatest conflicts. All the must-know details of the war are covered here, from the Battle of Gettysburg to the Emancipation Proclamation. You'll also find: Descriptions of the experiences of Black Americans, in both the North and the South, during the war Explorations of how slavery and civil rights fit into the social, political, and economic context of the time Profiles of some of the most famous generals in the war, including Robert E. Lee and Ulysses S. Grant Take a moment to get a hands-on education in this critical point in American history. Get American Civil War For Dummies now!

The civilisation of the Ancient Greeks has been immensely influential on the language, politics, educational systems, philosophy, science and arts of Western culture. As well as instigating itself as the birthplace of the Olympics, Ancient Greece is famous for its literature, philosophy, mythology and the beautiful architecture- to which thousands of tourists flock every year. This entertaining guide introduces readers to the amazing world of the Ancient Greeks. It offers a complete rundown of Greek history alongside fascinating insights into daily life in Ancient Greece and a captivating overview of Greek mythology. Readers will discover how this ancient culture came to be the cornerstone of Western civilisation and the enormous influence it has had on our language, politics, education, philosophy, science, arts and sport. The history of Ancient Greece remains a wide topic of interest, particularly renowned for its influential and diverse culture This basic guide will allow greater access to this vibrant area of study, and provide a distinct and light-hearted approach to this vast area history Covers dozens of topics, including; the early civilisations, war & fighting, home & family, day-to-day life and much, much more! About the author Steve Batchelor is a lecturer in Classics at Richmond College and has been teaching ancient history for 10 years. He has written reviews for various publications, including History Today , and he has also been involved in running guided historical tours of Greece.

Want to know more about American military history? "U.S. Military History For Dummies" presents concise and revealing accounts of all of the nation's armed conflicts from the French and Indian War to Iraq. It explains how the U.S. military is organized and how its branches operate, both independently and together.

This straightforward guide examines the causes for each of America's wars and reveals how these conflicts have shaped the nation's borders, society, politics, culture, and future. You'll meet heroes, cowards, patriots, and traitors; relive great battles; and get a taste of what combat is really like, as you discover: How the French/Indian war sowed the seeds of the Revolutionary WarWhy America's battle for independence didn't end at YorktownEarly U.S. wars against Indians, tax cheats, and piratesThe War of 1812: guaranteeing U.S. sovereignty"Manifest Destiny" wars that stretched America from sea to shining seaWhy the American Civil War could not be avoidedThe Spanish American War and the U.S. as an emerging global powerWhy World War I failed to "make the world safe for democracy"How World War II changed America's role in the worldKorea and Vietnam: hot wars during the Cold War

Featuring important insights on technological, political, and social changes that transformed the way America fights its wars "U.S. Military History For Dummies" is your key to understanding the evolution of the most powerful military force in history.

The rich variety of Europe's history rolled into one thrilling account. This book takes you on a fascinating journey through the disasters, triumphs, people, power and politics that have shaped the Europe we know today - and you'll meet some incredible characters along the way! From Roman relics to Renaissance, World Wars and Eurovision, European History For Dummies packs in the facts alongside the fun and brings the past alive. * Accompanied by access to a value-add timeline and 'Who's Who in European History' section on dummies.com * This new edition contains an 8-page colour insert so you can see who, what, and where the ensuing historical action takes place.

Explains his influence on the military, law, politics, and religion
Get the real story of Napoleon Bonaparte
Not sure what's true about Napoleon? This easy-to-follow guide gets past the stereotypes and introduces you to this extraordinary man's beginnings, accomplishments, and famous romances. It traces Napoleon's rise from Corsican military cadet to Emperor of the French, chronicles his military campaigns, explains the mistakes that led to his removal from power, and explores his lasting impact on Europe and the world.
Discover
* How Napoleon built -- and lost -- an empire
* The forces that influenced him
* Why he created the Napoleonic Code
* The inside story on Josephine
* How he helped shape modern-day Europe

Do you rummage through your grandmother's attic for pictures of old relatives? Have you ever wondered where your family came from? Would you like to know if you and someone famous share a common great-great grandparent? If you've answered yes to any of these questions you might be an amateur genealogist without even knowing it!

Genealogical programs like Family Tree Maker are widely available and do not require any special training to use. That's right -- with a PC, a computer program, and an interest in discovering your roots you can begin tracing your family's history from its early years to today. Along the way you just might visit exotic lands, meet famous relatives, or dabble in a foreign language!

Family Tree Maker For Dummies is your guide to getting the most out of today's most popular genealogy software on the market. Begin by investigating the many features Family Tree Maker offers all budding genealogists. Find out what you need to get underway and how to start recording data you have collected. The book helps you create an investigation strategy that taps into close (and distant) relatives, high-tech resources, and other genealogists from around the world! You can also explore options for presenting your completed family tree, from including photos and video in the final product to making copies for relatives. Family Tree Maker For Dummies makes preserving vital family records a fun and rewarding experience.

Call them Native Americans, American Indians, indigenous peoples, or first nations - a vast and diverse array of nations, tribes, and cultures populated every corner of North America long before Columbus arrived. Native American History For Dummies reveals what is known about their pre-Columbian history and shows how their presence, customs, and beliefs influenced everything that was to follow. This straightforward guide breaks down their ten-thousand-plus year history and explores their influence on European settlement of the continent. You'll gain fresh insight into the major tribal nations, their cultures and traditions, warfare and famous battles; and the lives of such icons as Pocahontas, Sitting Bull and Sacagawea. You'll discover:* How and when the Native American's ancestors reached the continent* How tribes formed and where they migrated* What North America was like before 1492* How Native peoples maximized their environment* Pre-Columbian farmers, fishermen, hunters, and traders* The impact of Spain and France on the New World* Great Warriors from Tecumseh to Geronimo* How Native American cultures differed across the continent* Native American religions and religious practices* The stunning impact of disease on American Indian populations* Modern movements to reclaim Native identity* Great museums, books, and films about Native Americans Packed with fascinating facts about functional and ceremonial clothing, homes and shelters, boatbuilding, hunting, agriculture, mythology, intertribal relations, and more, Native American History For Dummies provides a dazzling and informative introduction to North America's first inhabitants.

The 20th Century brought revolutionary changes to our world and our lives: the human population of the world tripled, space travel became reality, two world wars and a host of other conflicts were fought, and huge advances in science, technology and communication resulted in the globalised world we know today.

Enormous steps were made in wiping out widespread discrimination, from the women's suffrage movement leading to women's right to vote in western countries, to the civil rights movement in the US challenging racial segregation. The political landscape has provided lots of excitement, with charismatic and scandalous presidents in the White House, the first female prime minister in the UK, dictators working to various manifestoes across the world, the Middle East conflict and the changing balance of political and economic "superpowers."

Technological advances have resulted in nigh on universal adoption and dependence on automobiles, computers, mobiles and other wireless technology. The exponential rate at which technology is evolving is one of the variables that make the twentieth century so fascinating.

All this and much, much more happened in a mere one hundred years - where did we find the time to do so much? "Twentieth Century History For Dummies" tells all...

The fun way to research your family history Genealogy For Dummies, 8th Edition covers everything you need to know about starting a genealogical research project including where and how to find information, how to communicate with other online genealogists, how to leverage social networking sites and apps, how to add digital images to your family tree, and how to build your own site for sharing information. It also explains the use of compiled genealogies, U.S. Census information, and public access catalogs. Brand new to this edition is content on how to conduct genealogical research on the road, and on how to take this research and integrate it into the data found at home. It also contains new information on DNA research and testing, new geocoding applications to record geographic data into a genealogical database, and other new technologies. The book covers which apps are worth your money, and how to get the most out of them. * Use the latest tools to research family history * Create your own site to showcase your family tree, digital images, and compiled genealogies * Get access to free versions of Legacy Family Tree and Personal Ancestral Files * Utilize both online and offline research techniques and tools Follow the clues to uncover your family's legacy and have fun along the way!

From Norman invaders, religious wars--and the struggle for independence--the fascinating, turbulent history of a tortured nation and its gifted people

When Shakespeare referred to England as a "jewel set in a silver sea," he could just as well have been speaking of Ireland. Not only has its luminous green landscape been the backdrop for bloody Catholic/Protestant conflict and a devastating famine, Ireland's great voices--like Joyce and Yeats--are now indelibly part of world literature. In "Irish History For Dummies, " readers will not only get a bird's-eye view of key historical events (Ten Turning Points) but, also, a detailed, chapter-by-chapter timeline of Irish history beginning with the first Stone Age farmers to the recent rise and fall of the Celtic tiger economy.

In the informal, friendly "For Dummies" style, the book details historic highs like building an Irish Free State in the 1920s--and devastating lows (including the Troubles in the '60s and '70s), as well as key figures (like MP Charles Parnell and President Eamon de Valera) central to the cause of Irish nationalism. The book also details historic artifacts, offbeat places, and little-known facts key to the life of Ireland past and present.Includes Ten Major Documents--including the Confession of St. Patrick, The Book of Kells, the Proclamation of the Irish Republic, and "Ulysses"Lists Ten Things the Irish Have Given the World--including Irish coffee, U.S. Presidents, the submarine, shorthand writing, and the hypodermic syringeDetails Ten Great Irish Places to Visit--including Cobh, Irish National Stud and Museum, Giants Causeway, and DerryIncludes an online cheat sheet that gives readers a robust and expanded quick reference guide to relevant dates and historical figuresIncludes a Who's Who in Irish History section on dummies.com

With a light-hearted touch, this informative guide sheds light on how this ancient land has survived wars, invasions, uprisings, and emigration to forge a unique nation, renowned the world over for its superb literature, music, and indomitable spirit.

Explore the fascinating history of Scotland in an easy-to-read guide Want to discover how a small country on the edge of Northern Europe packs an almighty historical punch? Scottish History For Dummies is your guide to the story of Scotland and its place within the historical narratives of Britain, Europe and the rest of the world. You'll find out how Scotland rose from the ashes to forge its own destiny, understand the impact of Scottish historical figures such as William Wallace, Robert the Bruce and David Hume and be introduced to the wonderful world of Celtic religion, architecture and monuments. History can help us make connections with people and events, and it gives us an understanding of why the world is like it is today. Scottish History For Dummies pulls back the curtain on how the story of Scotland has shaped the world far beyond its borders. From its turbulent past to the present day, this informative guide sheds a new and timely light on the story of Scotland and its people. * Dig into a wealth of fascinating facts on the Stone, Bronze and Iron ages * Get to know how Scotland was built into an industrial economy by inventors, explorers and missionaries * Discover the impact of the world wars on Scotland and how the country has responded to challenges created by them * Find up-to-the-minute information on Scotland's referendum on independence If you're a lifelong learner looking for a fun, factual exploration of the grand scope of Scotland or a traveler wanting to make the most of your trip to this captivating country, Scottish History For Dummies has you covered.

"A great book that honors American Indian tribes and the historic trail."
—Gerard Baker, Superintendent of the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail and member, Three Affiliated Tribes of Fort Berthold

Features maps, travel tips, and archival drawings

Retrace Lewis and Clark’s steps and celebrate the expedition’s 200th anniversary

Want to know more about this famous adventure? Join Lewis and Clark as they recruit the Corps of Discovery, meet Sacagawea and various Indian tribes, and set off along the Missouri River on a thrilling, perilous journey. You’ll discover who all the players were, why the expedition happened, and the political and cultural ramifications.

"These knowledgeable authors have created a thorough, accurate, and lively introduction to history’s great "road buddies" story – from the grand plan to the diverse cast of characters. Plus, they offer a fresh look at the cooperative Native Americans who helped the expedition."
– James Alexander Thom, author of From Sea to Shining Sea and Sign Talker: The Adventures of George Drouillard on the Lewis and Clark Expedition

A plain-English guide to Britons in battle, from the Roman invasion to the ongoing Iraqi war

Charging through the Britain's military past, this accessible guide brings to life the battles and wars that shaped the history of Britain-and the world. The book profiles commanders, explains strategies and tactics, and covers key developments in weaponry and technology.