Books in Signature Lives: Ancient World series

Aristotle lived in Athens during a time when the city flourished with scholars, artists, warriors, and politicians. He studied with Plato at the School of Athens, eventually distinguishing himself as a brilliant philosopher and scientist. Later, he established the Lyceum school in Athens, where he gave groundbreaking lectures on a broad variety of topics, such as logic, biology, and physics. His lectures and books are still considered to be important pieces of the foundations of philosophy and science.

A pharaoh who ruled Egypt more than 3,500 years ago is one of the most intriguing mysteries of the ancient world. Hatshepsut, the world's first and most powerful female pharaoh, was virtually unknown until the mid 19th century. Although there was a conspiracy to erase Hatshepsut from history, an amazing amount of factual details about her life have emerged. Depicted both as a man and a pharaoh in the hieroglyphs of her temple, she built monuments and sent out expeditions that would enrich Egypts culture. But how did she manage to become pharaoh? Will her mysteries ever be solved?

Born into the city-state of Athens in 469 B.C., Socrates was surrounded by intellectuals. Most of these philosophers searched for answers about their surroundings. Socrates, however, sought truths about a person’s soul and morals. He became famous for his never-ending questioning, and he taught the youth to question others as well. Not all Athenians appreciated Socrates’ questions. In 399 B.C., powerful Athenians brought charges against Socrates that led to a dramatic trial and death of the famous philosopher.

Ramses II was one of the greatest pharaohs to rule ancient Egypt. Taking the throne in his early 20s and leading Egypt for 67 years, he was one of the longest-ruling pharaohs. Known for his strategic military skills, Ramses displayed his military might at the Battle of Kadesh, which set up an alliance with Egypt’s sworn enemy. He was also an extraordinary builder. Throughout his reign as pharaoh, he ordered the construction of more temples and monuments than any other ruler. His accomplishments and long-lasting reign earned him the title of Ramses the Great.

No individual has so strongly influenced Chinese culture as Confucius. The ancient Chinese philosopher was born in 551 B.C. As an adult, he tried to become an adviser to Chinas rulers, but had little success. Yet his teachings were spread by his students who were inspired by the great thinker. These teachings became Confucianismthe official philosophy of China. Confucianism spread to nearby countries including Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, and today people still study the instructions on morality and responsibility.

Growing up wealthy in ancient Greece, Thucydides’ future was filled with promise. His prominent family ties led him into the respected position of an Athenian general. His life took an unfortunate turn after he lost in battle to a Spartan army and was forced to leave Athens. Thucydides used his unique situation to interview soldiers on both sides of the war and to write detailed accounts of battles as they happened. Thucydides’ dedication to accurately record the Peloponnesian War forever changed the way history is written.

Born in 100 B.C., Julius Caesar grew to become one of ancient Romes greatest generals and statesmen. He carefully built his power as he worked his way up the political ladder. A talented writer and speaker, Caesar gained support among the common people. They helped keep him in public office. Caesar also served as general to a following of soldiers who were inspired by his boldness. Caesar's life, along with its tragic end, has long interested historians and even inspired one of the worlds best-known plays.

From 1900 to the present day, humanity and the world have undergone major changes. Drastic shifts in theories and practice tested the standards of personal freedoms and religious conventions as well as science, technology, and industry. The new mind-set of the modern world includes a focus on humanitarianism and the belief that a global economy has made the world a more connected place. Starting as a fascist newspaper editor in the early 1900s, Benito Mussolini rallied enough support to become prime minister of Italy in 1922. He would go on to lead Italy into World War II and befriend Adolf Hitler, the Nazi leader of Germany. Even with the help of his powerful ally, Mussolini’s war efforts would not succeed. Mussolini resigned from power and was executed by his own countrymen