Books in Wars That Changed the World series

Thomas Paine is one of the greatest political propagandists in history. The Rights of Man, first published in 1791, is the key to his reputation. Inspired by his outrage at Edmund Burke's attack on the uprising of the French people, Paine's text is a passionate defense of the rights of man. Paine argued against monarchy and outlined the elements of a successful republic, including public education, pensions, and relief of the poor and unemployed, all financed by income tax. Since its publication, The Rights of Man has been celebrated, criticized, maligned, and suppressed. But here, commentator Christopher Hitchens, Paine's natural heir, marvels at its forethought and revels in its contentiousness. Above all, he shows how Thomas Paine's Rights of Man forms the philosophical cornerstone of the world's most powerful republic: the United States of America.

Many consider Thomas Edison the inventor of the light bulb, but this world-changing invention has a long history. Since the 19th century, many have worked to create and improve the light bulb. Starting from the light bulbs early development all the way up to its modern uses, this informative title will fascinate anyone who wants to know about the invention that lights up the world!

This is the story of one of human history's most iconic inventions: the steam engine. It follows a long and exciting history from the coal mines of England to the Industrial Revolution and the transcontinental railroad in the United States. With colorful images and surprising facts, readers will follow the evolution of the steam engine from a simple pump to the advanced electrical generators of today, while learning about the famous minds and inventions that made it all possible.

The armistice signed in November 1918 signaled the end of World War I. It can be regarded as a turning point in the history of the 20th century. Why did Germany sign the armistice and agree to the harsh terms imposed by the Versailles Treaty? How did these agreements change the social and political structure of Europe? How do we remember those who fought and died in World War I? Armistice 1918 carefully examines these important questions and covers the consequences of World War I on a global scale: the Russian revolution, the rise of fascism, and economic hardship in Britain and Germany.