1688: A Global History by USC historian John E. Wills Jr. offers a unique perspective in history writing. The central conceit of the book is to present, as the title suggests, a snapshot of the world in the year 1688. Instead of trying to provide an overview of world events during this time period, Wills instead presents a series of vignettes from around the world, showing the growing inter culture contact occurring at the time. Wills eschews the normal Western perspective of many histories and instead presents a real global viewpoint. The book was a refreshing piece presenting looks at many cultures that I knew little about. The chapters on China and Japan were particular favorites, and has excited a desire in me to learn more about the histories of these two fascinating countries.
