The Lessons of History - Hardcover

Howard, Michael

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0198215819 ISBN 13: 9780198215813

Publisher: Clarendon Press, 1992

Synopsis

This is a collection of the major articles and lectures of Sir Michael Howard during his time as Regius Professor of Modern History in the University of Oxford between 1980 and 1989. Some reflect on contemporary events, but most are more broadly concerned with the historical process which underlies international politics, and the nature of the insights which historians should be able to bring to the study of world affairs. In particular, they deal with the evolution of "nations" and of nationalism in 19th century Europe, and the relationship of that evolution to the transformation of agrarian into industrial societies; that process of "modernization" which, beginning in western Europe in the 18th century, was by the end of the 20th to encompass the entire world, and whose effects trouble us still.

About this title

From the Back Cover

In this highly readable new book, one of the most eminent military historians in the world discusses the processes of historical change that ignited European wars of the twentieth century. Michael Howard ponders the continuing significance of nationalism, explores the conflicting ideologies that arose from industrialism, and argues that, despite the tendency of modern societies to dedicate themselves to material welfare rather than to heroic achievement, organized violence remains a norm.

Edition details

• Publisher: Clarendon Press
• Publication date: 1992
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0198215819
• ISBN 13: 9780198215813
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 222