Santillian, Beatriz

Readers will benefit from an understanding of how an environment of political turmoil bred a new, more inclusive system of law when what existed wasn't working for the people, while eye-catching call-outs offer insights that position historical background in the present.

If not for Snefru, the first pharaoh of the Fourth Dynasty, most of the massive pyramids of Egypt would not exist, and no pharaoh would have ever been buried in one.

Pericles moved his country to complete such works as building the Parthenon, Propylaea, and other projects, ending revolts against Athenian rule, leading Athens into the Peloponnesian War, and more, all while taking on various battles with domestic political rivals.

Readers will learn about how Leonidas I furthered democracy while maintaining the prosperity of his people, even in the face of adversity.

Conducting massive city-building projects, fortifying the borders of the empire, and other feats christen Hadrian as the third of the Five Good Emperors.

Traces the life of the warrior king of Macedonia who conquered and united the known world of his time.

Readers will learn about how the familial bonds of the women who eagerly and expertly guided the rulers of Thebes sustained him, as a lineage of war-making young men came of age on the throne.

The life of Ramses II offers some particularly unique intrigues that appear in his many campaigns throughout the ancient world.