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The Decisive Battles of World History cover art

The Decisive Battles of World History

By: The Great Courses, Gregory S. Aldrete
Narrated by: Gregory S. Aldrete
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Summary

Throughout history, military engagements have altered the course of historical events, causing major changes both on a global scale (the battles of Yarmouk & al-Qadisiyyah in 636 determined the religious/linguistic orientation of the Middle East that persists today) as well as within individual cultures (the 1836 battle of San Jacinto gave the United States nearly one-third of its continental territory). For these reasons and more, the study of pivotal battles is a highly useful analytical tool and an important component for understanding world history.

In these 36 dynamic lectures, Professor Aldrete leads you in discovering the military conflicts that have had the greatest impact in shifting the direction of events and defining our world. Across 4,000 years of history, you'll explore nearly 40 key military engagements, from the milestone battles of Western civilization to their counterparts in the Middle East, India, and Asia.

Through his dramatic and evocative descriptions, using special maps and animations, Professor Aldrete brings the events vividly alive, taking you through the moment-by-moment unfolding of each battle. Throughout the lectures, he uncovers fascinating background material that highlights the drama, poignancy, and scope of the experience of war. This engrossing course provides unique insights into world civilizations by revealing the profound impact of military battles in human history.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2013 The Great Courses; 2013 The Teaching Company, LLC

What listeners say about The Decisive Battles of World History

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riveting, thought provoking and enjoyable

Superb. The narrator knows his stuff and conveys it with passion, insight and clarity.

I learnt a lot from this, not just the broad sweep of historical forces and turning points but also the impact of things tangible at a personal level, such as a delay of 30 minutes, individuals acting on their own initiative and the impact of miscommunication.

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Superb

Amazing performance of battles spanning history. Some battles may initially seem esoteric, but Professor Aldrete manages to weave them together into an endless compelling narrative.

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extremely interesting audio book

strong narrative of each battle combined with picking apart the factors that caused the result of said decisive battle followed by what this meant/means for world history. excellent concisely presented lectures a thoroughly enjoyable listen

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Entertaining and enlightening

I was particularly interested in this as I’m very well aware that I have a very limited European view and knowledge of military history and this did not disappoint covering the globe in its review and mindset. I also found it an enticing question to consider how we are to decide what makes a battle deserve a place on the list.

Entertaining and enlightening combined and highly recommend

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Great Courses are GREAT

I like to read (or listen) about history and these Great Course series of books are very good.

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Fantastic journey through history of warfare

Generally just an amazing journey through the history of warfare and wider world history. A must read.

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Americas Centric

Mexico Incas Civil war and Quebec

not that interesting if you are European

strange choices

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Loved it, so interesting

It was fascinating to learn from history in this way and I loved being able to see what made good and bad strategies and how history could’ve been different at every turn. I found it hard to listen to his presentation style but he definitely makes the content interesting.


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Spoiler alert. Aljubarrota is not included.

Well, any one who has an interest in history likes to play this game. Prof Aldrete plays it well. Erudite and convincing , he presents arguments why his choice differs from that of the reader. I learnt about some battles unknown to me.Equally I admired his ability to focus, in 30 minutes, on the key elements of battles which I understand very well, such as Vienna 1683 and Midway 1942.
As Aljubarrota is not included just check it out. It explains why Brazil speaks Portuguese and not Spanish

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One of my favourite new books

As someone interested in military history, this book is exactly what I always wanted to read. It's very well written with historical background, solid research and interesting anecdotes. It is also very well balanced and not prejudiced in one direction or the other.

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