The Shortest History of Europe

To cut a long story short takes skill, organization, and a sound store of knowledge. The late John Hirst an Australian historian and author draws together multiple facets of the lengthy history of Europe to create and develop The Shortest History of Europe derived from his college course lectures. The book modifies the story, focusing on a wealth of detail as well as the major changes over the centuries. Interspersed with the text, basic charts, diagrams, and a handful of black and white images clarify the development of the unique continent, the only one to reach beyond its own boundaries, showing how over centuries these have shifted and allegiances changed.

The author addresses three principal eras: the lengthy classical period of Roman hegemony over an initially limited small geographic area, warring German invasions that pushed civilizing culture aside, and the advance of modern Europe as Christianity, in new forms, spread extensively. He homed in on how each stage comprised independent social, economic, and political structure.

Two outstanding chapters, on the evolution of languages, and the daily lives of ‘the commoners’ make the book a treasure. It’s an engaging read, not least for the invigorating style and flashes of humor.