There are many good history books, perhaps too many. The large number of choices is a source of frustration for many instructors. A reader is a good compromise since it introduces the students to a broad range of topics in a readable and scholarly form. That was the goal in developing this book. Topics range from the Roman gladiators to the Ming emperors of China and from the manners and customs of 17th century Persians to Lech Walesa before the United States Congress.