A History of the Americas

This extraordinary hardback reference guide weaves together common threads of history of the Americas, from the end of the ice ages until the present day, richly illustrated in full-colour throughout.

This sweeping survey of the Americas follows the epic story of the region, starting more than 15,000 years ago, when the first person stepped onto the American continent, through to the modern day. It is a sprawling tale of cultural transformations, influential characters, and evolving political landscapes into motion. Documenting the people, events, and beliefs that define the continent's complex history, it shows how this crucial region has become what it is today.

In this fascinating book, you will undertake a journey exploring the ancient empires of the Olmecs, the Aztecs, and the Inka; the revolutions that overturned European superpowers; two world wars; the fraught politics of the Cold War; and finally, the Covid-19 pandemic and the rise of a new type of politics in the 21st century. Offering a fresh take on the continent's interconnected history, A History of the Americas illuminates the intricate tapestry of American history and explores where the continent might be headed.

Beautifully illustrated with more than 200 colour photographs, detailed timelines and fascinating maps, A History of the Americas brings the sprawling history of the two continents to life.

ABOUT THE SERIES: Arcturus Visual Reference Library brings together wonderfully illustrated reference guides on scientific and historical topics, made bold and fascinating through full-colour maps, timelines, photographs, feature boxes and other visual elements.

Anthony McFarlane is Professor Emeritus of Latin American History at the University of Warwick and has held the post of Honorary Professorial Fellow at the UCL Institute of the Americas. He has written several books, including The British in the Americas 1480-1815 and War and Independence in Spanish America. He is a member of the Royal Historical Society, the Academia Colombiana de Historia and works on the editorial boards of several academic journals.

William Potter is a Leeds University graduate and has been a writer and editor of educational and activity books for both adults and children for more than two decades. His published works include a history of the world, railway and science museum handbooks, titles on prehistoric life, Vikings, the environment, new technology, guides to drawing comic-book and fantasy art, along with numerous science and mathematics titles.