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The Lessons of History cover art

The Lessons of History

Written by: Will, Ariel Durant
Narrated by: Grover Gardner
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Publisher's Summary

A concise survey of the culture and civilization of mankind, The Lessons of History is the result of a lifetime of research from Pulitzer Prize–winning historians Will and Ariel Durant.

The authors devoted five decades to the study of world history and philosophy, culminating in the masterful eleven-volume Story of Civilization. In this compact summation of their work, Will and Ariel Durant share the vital and profound lessons of our collective past. Their perspective, gained after a lifetime of thinking and writing about the history of humankind, is an invaluable resource for us today. The rare archival recordings of the Durants in conversation, made from 1957–1977, illuminate our present condition and offer insightful guidance for the future.

©2004 John Little, Monica Ariel Mihell, and William James Durant Easton (P)2004 Durant archival recordings 1957-1977 used with permission of John Little, Monica Ariel Mihell, and William James Durant Easton
  • Unabridged Audiobook
  • Categories: History

What listeners say about The Lessons of History

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Very dated

The book is all opinion based on the perspective of two married historians. It is very old and the opinions are very dated, even for the time it was published. It is interesting to hear an older perspective, but some info is false or offensive to modern post WW2 society.

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A great history lesson

Compact – It’s interesting and thoughtful. A really great book covering a lot of great material in a small amount of time.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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Great Summary of History

Thoroughly enjoyed this book. One of my favorite books on history and great summary.

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Succinct summary of a wide berth of history.

Durant manages to paint a picture akin to Toffler in connecting ideas and narratives that permeate throughout history.

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    1 out of 5 stars
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borring

this is really borring, and really hard to stay focused. there has to be no inflation on this planet earth to read this book.

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Masterpiece

This audio book contains additional commentary with the authors that adds extra insights and a look behind the curtain. The contents are timeless, and although there is obvious bias on the part of the authors their attempt to zoom all the way out and look at humanity since inception will enlighten you.

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Fascinating insights

Amazing word Smith. intriguing insights and perspectives. Very poor audio recordings. worth the read. Did not agree with everything but enjoyed his insights. Slightly dated.

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Love it!

This book reminds of how much I once enjoyed my high school history class. I want to purchase the hard copy now so I can read it!

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Masterpiece!

What a great and insightful summary of history. Short, to the point. To read every year.

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history repeats itself

I enjoyed knowing that we will not change yet. but there is hope for a far future!

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