"A Little History of the World" is a book written by Ernst Gombrich, a renowned art historian, in 1935. It is a narrative history of the world, covering the major events and figures from prehistory to the early 20th century.
The book is organized into 35 chapters, each focusing on a specific time period or topic. The first chapter, "The First Humans," discusses the origins of humankind and the development of early human societies. The second chapter, "The First Civilizations," covers the rise of the first civilizations in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley.
Other chapters cover the rise of the Greek city-states, the Roman Empire, and the spread of Christianity. Gombrich also discusses the Middle Ages, including the Viking raids and the Crusades, as well as the Renaissance and the Age of Exploration.
One of the unique aspects of "A Little History of the World" is its focus on the contributions of individuals to history. Gombrich highlights the accomplishments of figures such as Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, and Leonardo da Vinci, among others. He also discusses the contributions of various cultures and civilizations, including the Chinese, the Islamic world, and the Aztecs.
In addition to covering the major events and figures of world history, Gombrich also discusses the social, cultural, and economic factors that shaped the world. He touches on the role of religion, art, and science in shaping human history, as well as the impact of political and economic systems on society.
Overall, "A Little History of the World" is a comprehensive and engaging overview of world history. Its focus on the contributions of individuals and the impact of cultural and societal factors make it an enjoyable and informative read for anyone interested in learning more about the history of our world.