Located between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers in modern-day Iraq, the region known as Mesopotamia, Greek for "between two rivers," is often called the "cradle of civilization." The region is known for the rise of the first cities, as well as the invention of writing. Readers will discover that the various empires of the region, like Babylon and Sumer, made many important contributions to law, politics, mathematics, and agriculture. Simple text and...

The Romans who fearlessly fought in the Colosseum had varied backgrounds. Some were slaves and criminals forced to fight to the death. Others trained and volunteered for the task. Their goal was clear from the first step in the arena: the floor was sandy, so blood would be easy to clean up. Gladiator combat is a common topic when discussing the Roman Empire. Readers of this volume, however, will discover all the incredible details of gladiator life...

Presents several of the most dangerous, dirty, and otherwise unpleasant jobs done during the Industrial Revolution, including coal miners, factory workers, glassmakers, matchstick girls, metal workers, and chimney sweeps.

The American Civil War began in 1861 when a group of Southern states voted to secede. At that point, no one knew what a heavy toll the ensuing war would have on both sides of the conflict. Not only did more than 850,000 die, but millions more would suffer in other ways. Families of soldiers were left behind, just hoping to see their loved ones again. This indispensable book provides important facts about the war as well as critical information about...

Presents several of the most dangerous, dirty, and otherwise unpleasant jobs done in colonial America, including indentured servants, field workers, tanners, pitch makers, whalers, and hatters.

In this history of the stock car racing circuit known as NASCAR, Daniel Pierce offers a revealing new look at the sport from its postwar beginnings on Daytona Beach and Piedmont dirt tracks through the early 1970s when the sport spread beyond its southern roots and gained national recognition. Following NASCAR founder Big Bill France from his start as a mechanic, Real NASCAR details the sport's genesis as it has never been shown before. Pierce not...

"Many historians believe the Battle of Gettysburg was the most important battle in the Civil War. Readers of this informative volume will learn all about this battle and its part in the Civil War and United States history as a whole. Colorful photographs accompany detailed and engaging text that will hold readers' attention and help them gain knowledge on this important event in American history. Historical subject matter helps reinforce and supports...

"Known in his day as the "Father of Abolitionism," Reverend John Rankin is one of the greatest heroes previously lost to history. Sitting high above the small community of Ripley, Ohio, a lantern shone in the front window of a small, red brick home at night. It was a signal to slaves in Kentucky--a beacon of liberty in the darkness--just across the Ohio River. Anyone fleeing bondage could look to Reverend John Rankin's home for hope. To the slaveholders...

Discusses the difference between reform, conservative, and orthodox Judaism; provides a detailed look at the various Jewish holidays; and discusses Judaism's fundamental beliefs, rituals, and tenets.

Presents several of the most dangerous, dirty, and otherwise unpleasant jobs done in medieval times, including peasant, bog iron collector, woad dyer, fuller, barber-surgeon, and plague doctor.