Description
Book SynopsisIn this book, Peter F. Krough examines the major events and individuals which figured prominently in the movement of centers of initiative and of the world's main axis of commerce and communication from East to West over the last five hundred years. The book follows the westward migration of the world's center of gravity from China in the fifteenth century across Eurasia to the Near East, onward to Europe and then to America and, now, to the Pacific Rim. The focus is on historical figures who, by virtue of their vision and action, led the movement. It highlights what unfolds when a powerful idea is embraced by a formidable individual, who pursues the idea with uncommon ability and intensity. Along the way, the book identifies qualities that make for leadership on a grand scale which aspiring leaders may find instructive and even inspirational.
Trade ReviewLiterally an entire generation of students selected for prestigious fellowships and diplomatic assignments were launched by taking the Seminar on which this book is based. None could have wished for a better champion and statesman to march with them along the way — and make reading history so relevant to the challenges ahead.
-- Allan E. Goodman, Institute of International Education, President and Chief Executive Officer
Peter Krogh’s erudition is on full display in this page turner that sweeps you away with extraordinary insights into the power of good leadership as demonstrated by a brilliant cast of courageous explorers, warriors, and statesmen.
-- Noel Lateef, President of the Foreign Policy Association
Table of ContentsPreface
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Chapter 1: The Vikings
Chapter 2: The Mongols and Genghis Khan
Chapter 3: Before European Hegemony
Chapter 4: The Plague
Chapter 5: The Ottoman Empire, Mehmet the Conqueror and the Fall of Constantinople
Chapter 6: The Portuguese
Chapter 7: The World and Voyages of Christopher Columbus
Chapter 8: Ferdinand Magellan
Chapter 9: Sir Francis Drake
Chapter 10: Captain James Cook
Chapter 11: Thomas Jefferson and the Louisiana Purchase
Chapter 12: Theodore Roosevelt and the Panama Canal
Chapter 13: Winston Churchill
Chapter 14: Dean Acheson
Chapter 15: Deng Xiaoping
Conclusion
Appendix A: Jared Diamond, Guns, Germs and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies
Appendix B: David Landes, The Wealth and Poverty of Nations: Why Some Are So Rich and Some So Poor
Appendix C: Ying Gao, The Hungry Spirit: How Fear and Yearning Drove World History
Appendix D: Further Readings
