Anchor Atlas of World History Volume 1

These enjoyable little pocket books take a Cliff Notes approach to history. In a highly abbreviated text, the authors summarize everything from the Cambrian explosion to the Stamp Act of 1763. No important detail is left out.Now this level of historical detail is available in many formats. What really sets the Anchor Atlases apart is the superb maps and diagrams. The power structure of Byzantine Rome, the campaigns of Alexander and Hannibal, 16th century Indian internecine warfare, etc., are all finely laid out in easy-to-understand, surprisingly comprehensive, illustrations.The book's major limitation is it's 1975 publishing date, leaving out not just the past 3 decades of history, but also the significant advances in historical learning that have been made in that time as well.Nonetheless, wonderfully informative and enjoyable.

I've used both volumes extensively and have cited both numerous times in my college papers. I'm saddened to learn these are now out of print. Hopefully some one will rediscover their value and print them again. I first purchased Volume I while in high school, then discovered Volume II shortly after. I used them so much they fell apart. I purchased another set and brought the other to the cabin (every home should have a set). Three cheers for one of the most practical works ever published.

Its the best study partner I've ever had. I used vol I during High school and College and was always disappointed that I couldn't find vol II. Now my son is in High School and found vol I indespensable for History, as well as English Literature and wanted vol II for his AP History courses. After spending much time looking for it I was told by Barnes and Noble that there is a vol II, by Gary Kinder (must be Herman's brother or son), ISBN # 0385133553 - published in 1978. Its on order and I can't wait to get it. I remember how many hours I spent just perusing it for history that I didn't know. The maps and illustrations were better than most giant hardbound history reference books. The neat thing about this book is the way that it puts history in perspective with a geographical location or a specific series of events without confusing the reader with too much irrelevant information (and its small enough to carry to class). Would somebody please put this on a CD!

Though already 0ver 20 years old, Kinder's work is an amazingly compact asset which can assist both scholar and student in the on-going study of history. I have used this book since graduate school twenty years ago, and I still recommend it to college students in my history classes. With clear timelines along with vivid and detailed maps concerning various aspects of church, political, economic, and social history, the Atlas of World History is a terrific bargain at any cost. Its compact size in paperback is just one more reason for even the most casual reader in history to purchase this great work!