The Rise of Western Civilization

The Rise of Western Civilization introduces students to the vibrancy of the past and illustrates the way in which early civilizations have influenced contemporary society. The text emphasizes art, literature, social history, and other cultural developments to help students learn about the people of a particular era and how their lives have shaped our history.

Organized chronologically, themes within the text include the establishment of empires and the cause of their rise and fall, the formation and development of government, and significant social changes. Chapters explore the first civilizations, ancient Greece, the Roman Empire, Islam and Byzantium, medieval civilization, the Reformation Era, early modern Europe, and much more.

Each chapter includes special sections-Historical Profiles, Historical Issues, and Historical Connections-to engage students and bring the subject matter to life. Historical Profiles examine the life of an historical figure who had an impact on the time in which he or she lived. Historical Issues highlight events, issues, or personalities that can be interpreted in a variety of different ways and are intended to inspire critical thinking and lively discussion. Historical Connections connect the dots between a past event or person and something relevant to modern society.

The Rise of Western Civilization is part of the Cognella History of Europe Series, a collection of textbooks that help students discover the power, influence, and dynamic nature of European countries and their histories. It is an ideal text for survey courses in world and European history.