In 1528, the Spanish explorer Alvar Nunez Cabeza de Vaca and his three companions were shipwrecked and, looking for help, began an eight-year trek through the deserts of the American West. Over three centuries later, the four Great Surveys in the United States were consolidated into the US... číst celé
The book explores the diverse roles of monastic communities in Western Europe during the Middle Ages, from 500 to 1500 c.e. It highlights the varying emphases of these institutions, including aristocratic monasteries that provided comfort and security, and rural communities focused on ascetic lifestyles. The narrative examines their significant contributions to religious, economic, social, literary, and military aspects of medieval life, illustrating the complexity and impact of monasticism throughout this period.
The book explores the clandestine opium trade between India and China from 1823 to 1860, highlighting the perilous journeys undertaken by swift vessels that navigated treacherous waters filled with pirates and typhoons. It delves into the operations of American, British, and Indian firms involved in this lucrative yet morally dubious commerce, shedding light on the complex interplay of profit, legality, and ethics in a historical context.