Dictionary of Historic Documents

Identifies and explains the importance of significant historic treaties, laws, speeches, letters, court decisions, and other writings, from the Code of Hammurabi to Mao's "Little Red Book"

The incredible proliferation of public doc uments in the 20th century may have dulled our appreciation of their social import. This book attempts to describe and elucidate the major state and social pronouncements that have shaped civilization from roughly 1700 B.C. to the present. The book's preface sounds almost apologetic in tone, explaining the constraints that determined what documents were or were not included, but there is little fault to be found with this excellent volume. Nothing current or comparable exists that serves to define over 2200 influential documents spanning world history in a convenient dictionary format. Given the restrictions of describ ing the who, what, when, and why for each entry, the writing is still crisp and varied. Foreign phrases or concepts are defined within each entry, cross references abound, and a lengthy bibliography subdivided by geographic area enables the user to find more complete information when texts or expanded examinations are needed. The definitions are surprisingly consistent in length regardless of the importance of the subject, with most entries averaging 110 words. For its concise yet satisfying definitions and comprehensive scope in treating an occasionally overwhelming subject, this book represents ready reference at its best. Recommended for all libraries.
- James Moffet, Baldwin P.L., Birmingham, Mich.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.