About the series

When the first Cambridge Concise History appeared in 1991, we had little idea that this would be the start of a new range of books, let alone a whole new publishing phenomenon.

However, it seems that, over a decade later, the appetite for well-written, authoritative, but entertaining history has never been greater. Since then, the range of titles has broadened to include countries from most of the continents of the world ­ still retaining the accessibility and for which the Concise Histories have been celebrated. The range has almost doubled in the last two years, and many more titles are planned. Perhaps you are looking for something to read on the plane, to get a bit of background on your holiday destination? Or maybe you want to know the key events of the past that are making today's headlines ? Either way, you won't find a better historical guide than the Concise Histories…

… But don't take our word for it … here are some of the comments made about the series:

Praise for the Concise Histories:

'Succinct, accurate and graphic … attractively produced and liberally illustrated.'
The Times Literary Supplement

'...short, well written and authoritative...'
Contemporary Review

'...a great introduction to the subject...'
Open History