Title: Curiosity, Adventure, Travel, Exploration, Trade, War, Murder: The European Expansion, 15th to 20th Century
Author: James B. Read
Publisher: CreateSpace
ISBN: B077JH6PLK
Pages: 272
Genre: Travel Essays / Military History
Reviewer: Christina Avina
Hollywood Book Reviews
Something which has always become part of the tapestry of history throughout mankind is that for every major event or turning point in history, there has been a great man or woman who has come forth to change things, be it for the best or the worst. From the rise of empires, to global wars and so much more, major historical events from around the globe have been shaped by the decisions and ideas of men and women who took a chance to push their ideas forward.
Author James B. Read recognized this and brought to readers a unique and insightful book called Curiosity, Adventure, Travel, Exploration, Trade, War, Murder: The European Expansion, 15th to 20th Century. In this book, the author takes readers on a journey through five centuries worth of historical events led by powerful historical figures, and how their personal motivations and goals pushed the rise and fall of empires and changed the course of history forever. These events and figures ranged from Marco Polo’s expeditions for Portugal to the rise of the British Empire – and so much more.
Breathing fresh life into the historical genre, the author found a great balance of detailed accounts with personal travel experiences. The book not only explores the battles and wars that were fought to determine which empire controlled the trade routes that helped shape the direction of the world overall, but the regions of the world themselves and the importance that sailing and exploration played in those historical events. Learning of Marco Polo’s work for Kublai Khan and later his years in prison as a political prisoner were fascinating, and Henrique O Infante’s obsession with conquering the African coast and how it led to his rise as Henry the Navigator and the funding of explorations amongst the African West Coast was engaging, showcasing the author’s attention to detail.
Readers who enjoy non-fiction books, especially those that enjoy history, sailing and navigation, travel, and travelogues will thoroughly enjoy this book. The author didn’t shy away from all of the details that this book provides and took the time to portray the figures in this book not as heroes or villains, but as the explorers they were. The author’s energetic and passionate zeal for history was evident in every chapter, and the smooth pacing of the book itself allowed readers to fully engross themselves in the history and the personal experiences of the author’s life, making this a compelling book to return to time and time again.