The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire (World History)

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Grade 7 Up-Nardo has turned out yet another thoroughly researched and documented study of an ancient people who had a major role in the building of empires. The Assyrians were widely feared and hated during the period of their ascendancy (approximately 1000 to 600 B.C.E.). The author does not shy away from describing the cruelty of their warfare, which included mass executions of civilians and deportations. He also describes the techniques of siege warfare perfected by the Assyrians. This is a complete and well-rounded study and includes the less martial accomplishments of the culture as well: the building of a great library and well-ordered cities. Nardo also does an admirable job of dealing with the complex reasons behind the decline of the Roman Empire. He describes the factors such as economic instability, political divisiveness, and, most tellingly, military defeats and barbarian invasions that eventually tolled a death knell for one of history's longest-lived empires. Also included is information about the lasting heritage that Rome bequeathed to Western civilization, including the Christian faith, laws, and culture that we still carry with us today. Excellent, up-to-date bibliographies and numerous black-and-white photos and drawings make these books worthwhile purchases for research purposes.
David N. Pauli, Starke County Library, Knox, IN
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