To understand the cultural and political differences that endanger our world, we need to appreciate fundamental national stories. In this unique book, leading writers and scholars from twenty-eight countries give thoughtful, engaging accounts of their own nations history.

The countries have been selected to represent every continent and every type of state: large and small; mature democracies and religious autocracies; states that have existed for centuries and those born recently, making up two-thirds of the worlds population.

Peter Furtado is the former editor of the internationally renowned magazine 'History Today'. Note: The ebook edition includes the complete text of the printed book with a reduced number of illustrations.