Dr Phyllis G Jestice

Sitting on the edge of empires, for more than 2000 years before the birth of Christ the Biblical lands were fought over by rival peoples – Canaanites, Philistines, Israelites, Assyrians, Babylonians, Greeks, and Romans. Forming a land bridge between Eurasia and Africa and controlling access to the eastern Mediterranean, the territory that today makes up much of the modern state of Israel has proved a tempting prize for a wide array of would-be conquerors. Battles of the Bible Illustrated Atlas introduces 20 key battles from the Biblical era. Beginning with the Israelites’ campaign against Ai (1407 BC) and finishing with the siege of Masada (73 AD), examples from every major campaign are featured. The book contains the major Hebrew leaders such as Saul and David, the invasion of the Assyrians and the enslavement of the Israelites by the Babylonians. Each battle includes a contextual introduction, a description of the action, and an analysis of the aftermath. A specially-commissioned map illustrating the dispositions and movement of forces helps the reader grasp the course of the battle. Authoritatively written and with more than 200 maps, artworks and photographs, Battles of the Bible Illustrated Atlas is an essential companion for anyone interested in Ancient military history.

This fascinating hardback guide examines of one of the most important eras in history, the Middle Ages, spanning the breadth of the globe and illustrated throughout with brilliant full-colour illustrations.Often misconceived as a dark ''between-time'' between the ancient and modern eras, the Middle Ages was in fact a period of radical transformation. Professor of Medieval History Phyllis G. Jestice gives a fascinating overview of this incredible period across the world, bringing to life the personalities, the technologies, the politics and the culture that defined this period in the development of the world we know today.Includes:• The rise of Christianity• The astounding advances in the sciences and the arts in the Islamic world• How economic powerhouses developed in Africa and powerful states arose in the Americas• How trade flourished throughout central Asia and China in the form of the Silk Roads• The terrifying depredations of the Mongol invasions• The crusades and other conflicts of Europe that marked a so-called era of ''chivalry''.Brought to life with spectacular artwork, maps, timelines and more, this visual history is a wonderful world overview of this crucial era.