Twentieth-Century World History
Although it is a personal decision, all members of the department who teach the contemporary world course use the Duiker text. Key in the choice is readability, conciseness, and length."I compared the two texts and selected Duiker for its well-balanced thematic and chronological treatment; more attractive layout than Findley; and maps and visual elements. The third edition is an improvement on the second: the new layout and addition of color makes it visually crisper and more attractive. … This is a global history text that offers a thematic approach to the twentieth century with a strong narrative. Duiker provides appropriate detail to individual countries and distinctive cultures, and, unlike many texts, it gives full attention to the importance of geography."The major strength of the book is that it is concise and well written. Duiker does a good job combining political, economic and cultural aspects of the world since 1850."Chapters 1, 2, and 3 are a strength to the book by providing an excellent background to the developments in the nineteenth century that contribute to the direction of the twentieth century. Students find the author's treatment to be straightforward, analytical, and easy to understand. The division of the three chapters seems to be perfect in blocking three major areas that shape the twentieth century."He succeeds admirably in achieving his intention - the marriage of global and regional as well as cultural issues.