The Illustrated Rise and Fall of the British Empire

Spanning four centuries and six continents, James' masterpiece examines the imperial experience and its legacy with tremendous insight and finesse. His original work has now been abridged and illustrated in full color throughout with over 400 meticulously researched photographs, paintings, maps and portraits to create a comprehensive and visually stunning portrait of the era.Great Britain's geopolitical role has undergone many radical changes over the last four centuries. Once a maritime superpower and ruler of half the world, Britain now occupies an isolated position as an economically fragile island often at odds with her European neighbors. Spanning the years from 1600 to the present day, this critically acclaimed book combines detailed scholarship with readable popular history.