Newsletter - Volume 1 #1

SUBJECT: History 

Studying history gives an individual perspective on current events. But first the facts. If you don't know who, what, when, where, how, and why,  there is no way that you can arrive at meaningful opinions.

It is true that the first rendition of events usually has the longest life.  But we are learning to constantly re-appraise as new facts are discovered. It used to be said that history began when writing was invented. However, we now know that writing takes many forms. As the centuries have passed, we have not only learned how to read esoteric ancient languages but we have also learned how to "read" artifacts. Thus, the history books are in a constant state of knowledge acquisition. 

By the way, I regard history and geography as inseparable. As we study the dynamics of war and peace, the  movement of people and goods, we must always  take into account the physical, economic and political reasons for those events.. 

With reference to the teaching of history in grades K-12, please refer to BOOKSINK.COM. Then go to Educators - History. 

I enjoy having a quick reference library of my own so that I can check points of reference when I am reading both fiction and non-fiction. I recommend the following:

The Usborne Illustrated World History Dates - an indispensable reference book. Comparative world history is presented in clear instantly usable form.  

The Penguin Atlas of Ancient History
The Penguin Atlas of Medieval History
The Penguin Atlas of  Modern History to 1815
The Penguin Atlas Of  Recent History through 1980
The Penguin Atlas of North American History to 1870
The Penguin Atlas of African History
The Penguin Historical Atlas of  the Pacific
This group of atlases presents maps of the areas through history with concise  information. Demographics, trade routes and political boundaries are presented on separate dated maps. Invaluable.

A Street Through Time
Another remarkable book. A street scene is presented in double page spreads. The first is dated 10,000B.C. in ensuing pages, the same scene is presented in 2,000 B.C., 600 B.C., 100 A.D., ETC. through to the street of today, showing the changes that have occured in life-style terms. Fascinating for all ages.

Yes! Books Ink always has these books in stock.  Please communicate via phone 207/361-2602, FAX 207/361-2808, or e-mail BOOKSINK@AOL.COM. We shall fill all orders promply. 

Now, for your amusement, we have put together a short quiz.  What is the  the importance of each of the following dates: 44 B.C.,  476 A.D., 1066, 1215, 1453, 1492, 1517, 1608, 1620, 1775, 1789, 1803 1812, 1848, 1865, 1898, 1917, 1920, 1929, 1931, 1941, 1945, 1950, 1955, 1969,  1972, 1974,  1989. An event in each of these years has had long-range repercussions on our history and the life we lead today. Yes! There are others, but this list of 30 dates will do for starters. Have fun! The answers are available on our website:  BOOKSINK.COM. Then go to Educators - History and click on the Red Oval. 

We would be delighted to hear from you with suggestions, questions or comments. Our e-mail address is: BooksInk@aol.com. We look forward to your correspondence.