The Puffin History of the World – Volume 2

The book explores subjects ranging from the French Revolution and the World Wars to industrialization, the rise and fall of empires, the slave trade, the development of modern nations, the Internet and the decoding of the human genome. Maps, illustrations, interesting facts, quotations and portraits make the historical journey accessible to younger readers.

Roshen Dalal is a historian and writer with an MA and PhD in Ancient Indian History from Jawaharlal Nehru University. She has taught at school and university level and has written extensively on history, religion, philosophy and education. Her other works include The Puffin History of India, The Religions of India, Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide and The Vedas.

Beginning around 1500, this volume traces the transformation of the world through political, social, economic and technological change. Readers discover how industrialization developed, how empires such as the Ottomans and Mughals rose and declined, how the slave trade emerged, and how major events reshaped countries and societies. It also examines modern developments such as the breakdown of communism, post-war Japan, the emergence of the Internet and advances in genetics. With lively storytelling and visual material, the book makes global history informative and enjoyable for young readers.