Bücher der Reihe Short Histories of Big Ideas

Has communism shaped the contemporary world? This overview of the history of communism challenges us to think about its role in shaping the contemporary world. It shows how the modern communist movement emerged out of radical millenarian movements of the Middle Ages and the English Civil War, becoming a mass movement of industrial society.

The fate of the environment was one of the most important issues of the twentieth century and remains a vital problem, dominating public politics and private interest across the globe and in practice. This work presents an introduction to the debates, the movements, the successes and failures of environmentalism.

"This is a superb introduction to a crucial chapter in Jewish history for the uninitiated reader. In this engaging and highly accessible book, David Engel provides a concise, informative and lucid account of the history of the modern Zionist movement and its impact on both Israeli society and Israel's relations with Diaspora Jewry."Yael Zerubavel, Professor of Jewish Studies & History at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and author of "Recovered Roots: Collective Memory and the Making of Israeli National Tradition.""David Engel's book is a masterpiece of brevity and insight, offering a sweeping survey of political Zionism - from its 19th century inception, through its practical realization, to its standing in contemporary Israel. The debate on Zionism as the liberation movement for Jews everywhere is greatly enriched by this fascinating study." Ronald W. Zweig, Taub Professor of Israel Studies at New York University and author of "Britain and Palestine During the Second World War."