History Books

Recommendation: This book is a comprehensive account of the prestigious Hambros family, spanning 250 years of their history. It covers their legacy in banking, politics, and philanthropy, making it a must-read for anyone interested in European finance and the role of family businesses in shaping history. The book offers rare insights into the Hambros family, and is perfect for individuals curious about the history of European finance.

If you're intrigued by how a nation can evolve while preserving its unique cultural identity, "Thailand Condensed" is a perfect read. Ellen London skillfully blends the charm of centuries-old traditions with the vibrant dynamics of contemporary Thai life. It's an inviting journey for anyone curious about the intricate background and current heartbeat of this uncolonized Southeast Asian gem.

If you're looking to get into rugby, this Collins Gem guide could be your new best friend. It's compact enough to take anywhere, yet provides a comprehensive overview of the sport. Get ready to understand rugby's rules, lingo, and history, making your next game watch or play more enjoyable.

If you're keen on understanding the intricate and ever-evolving landscape of Southeast Asia, this annual review is for you. With expert analysis from a diverse range of scholars, "Southeast Asian Affairs 2013" promises a thorough comprehension of the region's politics, international relations, and economies. It's a reliable resource for both academics and enthusiasts looking to dive deep into the heart of Southeast Asia's most critical developments.

You might find Barbara Leaming's biography of Marilyn Monroe fascinating because it digs deep into her life, avoiding the common trap of sensationalism. With primary sources at its core, the book sheds light on her association with the Kennedys in a way that past biographers hadn't managed. If you're intrigued by the enigmatic figure of Monroe and enjoy a nuanced historical perspective, this could be the ideal pick for you.

If you're eager to untangle the intricate web of global politics and power shifts, "When China Rules the World" offers a thought-provoking analysis that might change your perspective on international affairs. Martin Jacques takes you beyond the day's headlines, offering insights into how China's rise could fundamentally alter the world stage, challenging the existing Western-centric worldview. Through it, you’ll gain appreciation for the deep historical and cultural undercurrents shaping our future.

If you're fascinated by the intersection of history, medicine, and global politics, "Quinine" by Fiammetta Rocco is a compelling read. The story of quinine is not just about a drug, but about the geopolitical and scientific journeys that were shaped by the quest for a malaria cure. It entwines adventure, greed, colonialism, and the profound impact on warfare and exploration. This book takes you beyond medicine into the broader effects on human endeavors and the world stage.

This comprehensive textbook uniquely combines European, Asian, and North American perspectives to provide a thorough understanding of international business. It uses institutional and resource-based perspectives to answer the central question of what determines global business success and failure. The book also engages readers with historical context and recent developments, making it a must-read for students interested in global business.

If you're intrigued by the intersection of art, history, and culture, "Hijikata Tatsumi and Butoh" is a journey you'd want to embark on. It's not just a story about a dance genre; it's a vivid chronicle of artistic rebellion and innovation. You'll be plunged into Japan's vibrant post-war era, exploring the nuances of a movement that has captivated audiences worldwide.

If military strategy piques your interest, you'll appreciate this deep dive into the critical role of leadership during the 1973 Yom Kippur War. It's not just a recount of historical events, but a study on how effective leadership at the smallest unit levels can have a colossal impact, even when outnumbered and outgunned. Understanding these dynamics is as relevant today as it was decades ago, especially if you're fascinated by leadership in extreme circumstances.

If you've been bitten by the travel or photography bug, 'Spectacular Canada' by Elaine Jones will satisfy your cravings. This book takes you on a breathtaking visual expedition across Canada's diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. It's the kind of book where every flip of the page deepens your appreciation for Canada's natural grandeur and its rich cultural mosaic. Whether you're a dreamer planning your next adventure or someone who enjoys armchair traveling, 'Spectacular Canada' will enchant you with its stunning imagery and insights.

If you're fascinated by the less-explored corridors of history, "Belgian Heritage in India" will intrigue you with its uncovering of Belgian cultural imprints in India, a subject seldom highlighted. It promises a visual and intellectual journey through the impact Belgians have had on Indian history, culture, and arts, with a blend of illustrations and insightful narration that might just open up a new perspective on Indo-European relations for you.

If you're intrigued by the East-West commercial nexus and the unique challenges of the Chinese market, "Managing The Dragon" is a tailor-made guide for you. Jack Perkowski's first-hand account weaves practical wisdom with the excitement of untapped potential. It's a playbook imparting valuable insights for entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts looking to understand and conquer this economic giant.

This book tells the complex saga of a sports car that was created in the early 1960s as a result of an unlikely collaboration between a plain-talking ex-racing driver from Texas and a conservative British automobile manufacturer, funded by one of the giants of the industry, the Ford Motor Company.Carroll Shelby, AC Cars, and Ford came together to create a car called the Cobra, based on the AC Ace roadster that had been in production since 1954. When the Shelby Cobra was created, it was far from state-of-the-art, but the use of a new series of Ford V8 engines saw the lightweight car annihilate the Chevrolet Corvette in American sports car racing. By adding aerodynamic bodywork, the Daytona Cobra Coupe arrived in Europe to contest the FIA World Championship and took victory in the GT category in 1965, making Shelby American the first (and only) USA-based manufacturer to achieve this feat.In order to capitalize on this success, even greater power was required and the car was developed to take a huge 7-liter engine that proved to be a triumph of horsepower over handling – thus the 427 Cobra became an overnight legend, establishing new performance records and creating a reputation for being more than a little tricky to drive.The era of the Cobra was brief – production ended at Shelby American during 1966 and at AC Cars in 1968 where they built their own final version, the AC289 Sports. Just over 1000 Cobras were built during that time but the final cars proved difficult to sell, their vintage qualities deterring potential owners. Carroll Shelby closed his company and went to Africa while AC developed other models, but the Cobra was not quite finished yet. Within a matter of a few years, a new market for the car was created as the demand for affordable kit cars grew. The most popular model by far was the Cobra and many thousands were built, with the result that both AC Cars and Carroll Shelby put their own versions back into production. And then the arguments really started…If it was an improbable car over forty years ago, it is even more implausible today, but the remarkable Cobra, in one form or another, is still with us. It may be dead, but it just won’t lie down!