civilization, modern

Explores the family of gods and goddesses that the ancient Greeks worshiped.

Contains forty short essays that profile the top forty artistic events of the twentieth century.

Guide for history buffs, science students, lovers of popular culture, and natural-born detectives. With background on the origins of more than 300 modern phenomena, objects, sayings, stories, and superstitions that most people take for granted. Complete with humorous illustrations and easy-to-navigate chapters, the eye-opening explanations and amazing anecdotes reveal the truth behind the birth and brilliance of the brown paper bag; the 4,000-year history of toothpaste and its torrid past; and the reasons for the staying power of popular puzzles from Rubik?s Cube to sudoku. Find out why we have nature to thank for velcro, valium, and the Guggenheim; why we get the blues and not the reds; and why Heinz has the Romans to thank for its saucy success. Describes the origin of more than 400 garments, machines, foods, sports, places, phenomena, and other everyday things that most people take for granted. Arranged alphabetically.

Tells the story of Abraham Lincoln, sixteenth president of the United States, and looks at what was happening in each of seven regions of the world during the time in which he lived. Includes a time line and maps.

Presents a chronicle of the year 1800, looking at what was happening in civilizations around the world at the dawn of the modern era.

Illustrates African contributions to contemporary culture, including the significance of the African diaspora, and examines the continuing influence of the superpowers on the affairs of Africa.

Offers a selection of works of multicultural literature, nonfiction, and biography, intended for general adult readers. Each of the fifteen sections cover a different cultural group and begins with a historical overview, followed by a synopsis of recommended titles.

Explores how globalization has created commonalities throughout the world, describing how cuisines, cultures, beliefs, and practices of different countries are influencing others, and examines debates over whether increased globalization is good or bad.