Barbara Tuchman, "The Proud Tower: A Portrait of the World Before the War 1890-1916 (Audiobook)"

Summary: Absolutely outstanding historical work
Rating: 5

As with all Barbara Tuchman's other works, here again, she is an unbelievably gifted historian, not only in her understanding of the time periods which she covers, but in her ability to draw phenomenally vivid pictures of her subjects with her words. The personalities, places, events and times jump from the pages into your imagination and, whether you are reading or listening to her works, you land up being part of the history periods, intricately and enthusiastically caught up with all their pathos. This work covers the entire world, Europe, Colonial Africa and America, politically and sociologically, from 1865 to the First World War. The author's breadth and depth are astounding, and her descriptions, perceptions and understanding of the people, times and forces that drove world history during this period are magnificent, illustrated with a most masterful command of the English language. A true pleasure to enjoy. Highly recommended for amatuer and professional historians.