A History of Western Society: Study Guide: Volume 1

A bestseller in its field, A History of Western Society examines the lives of both historical figures and ordinary people, using an engaging, lively writing style to capture students' interest. The authors pay careful attention to traditional political and cultural developments, providing a balanced, well-rounded view of Western history as a whole. Designed to appeal to a more visual student body, the Seventh Edition devotes increased attention to cultural history. The text's photo and map programs have been enhanced, with a stronger relationship between the narrative and illustrations. Scholarly updates throughout the text include new information on Egyptian religion; a revised discussion of the polis and Greek democracy; new material on the origins of Christian sacraments; an expanded discussion on the Peace of God; a new exploration of the cultural consequences of the Crusades; updated scholarship on the Atlantic slave trade; and a revised discussion of nationalism.

John P. McKay, Professor of History at the University of Illinois, received his Ph.D. from the University of Columbia, Berkeley in 1968. Author of three books, he won the Herbert Baxter Adams Award from the American Historical Association with his Pioneers for Profit. He is a Senior Fulbright Fellow and recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship.

Bennett D. Hill (deceased), a former Chairman and Professor of History at the University of Illinois, received his Ph.D. from Princeton in 1963. He taught at the University of Maryland and was most recently a visiting professor at Georgetown University. He published two books and many journal articles.

John Buckler, a Professor of History at the University of Illinois, earned his doctorate at Harvard University in 1973. He has published numerous journal articles and written a monograph, The Theban Hegemony, published by Harvard University Press.