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The Rise and Fall of the British Empire

By: Patrick N. Allitt, The Great Courses
Narrated by: Patrick N. Allitt
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Summary

What were the forces that thrust the British Empire to its extraordinary position of greatness and then just as powerfully drove it into decline? And why is nearly every nation on earth, in one way or another, the consequence of the British Empire?

In these 36 lectures, Professor Allitt leads you through four centuries of British power, innovation, influence, and, ultimately, diminishment - four profound centuries that literally remade the world and bequeathed the complex global legacy that continues to shape your everyday life. This is a remarkable lecture series; one that will give you fresh insights into world history in a wide range of areas - political, economic, technological, social, and more. And it will also give you a comprehensive overview you won't find offered anywhere else - a context into which you can integrate new knowledge about this country, as well as understand the background of current events in so many other countries that were once part of Britain's empire, from Ireland to China, and in Africa and the Caribbean. Indeed, it seems fair to say that one cannot truly understand the most important aspects of world history without a firm grasp of the history of the British Empire. In giving you that grasp, these lectures draw on a vast range of critical events, riveting personalities, revealing anecdotes, and eloquent quotations.

Compelling, comprehensive, and astonishing in the force of its narrative power, each lecture will give you a refreshing new understanding of what made the British Empire both great in its achievements and vulnerable to its eventual downfall.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2009 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2009 The Great Courses
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Editor reviews

The Rise and Fall of the British Empire written by The Great Courses, is a historical audiobook expertly narrated by Professor Patrick N. Allitt, who takes listeners on an astounding journey through the history of an Empire that shaped the way for the modern world. The reach of the Empire was colossal, its unwavering strength lasted centuries. You will learn more of the notable figures, battles and achievements of this vast superpower. A lecture not to be missed for anyone studying or fascinated by modern history. Available now from Audible.

What listeners say about The Rise and Fall of the British Empire

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A balanced history of the British Empire

I would very much recommend this balanced tour of the history of the British empire. The lecturer, who is the voice double of Alan Partridge (which makes the course even more listenable), is very knowledgeable, engaging, and insightful.

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Excellent Overview

As others have pointed out, Professor Allitt's accent bears an uncanny resemblance to Alan Partridge. However, that shouldn't put you off listening to this excellent lecture series. It provides a balanced overview of the British Empire. As an Irishman, I was particularly interested in how he dealt with Ireland and he did so sympathetically and fairly. All in all, the lectures are well worth listening to.

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Fantastic. A great listen for all!

All British descended peoples and those in former occupied administered colonies should listen. The Lecturer is very good, the material is very concise and interesting. My only wish following this book is that the final 4 chapters would get an update now we've attempted to liberate ourselves from Europe.

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Great way to learn a significant amount of history

The author is clearly a master of his trade. The course is put together as a series of lectures that fit and cross reference nicely. I really enjoyed learning how many historical things had happened and feel this has improved my knowledge. Each lecture is kept at a pretty high level and it is all easy to follow. Great for very long journeys.

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Great little listen

Comprehensive and thorough especially given the time restrictions. Not overly verbose. The basics beyond the history are conveyed without prejudice and are clear for anyone to grasp. A great lecture series for history buffs and casual listeners alike

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Outstanding!

Learned, witty and informative. Great pace throughout. Absolutely charming and engaging narrator! Can't recommend highly enough.

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So interesting and really nice pace

I grew up in England and our education in the British empire was practically non existent so this audiobook was so interesting and helpful in helping me tie together all the parts of history that lead to what I experience today.

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Fair and to the point

Very informative, thorough and fair, showing the good and the bad of the British Empire.

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<br />An unbiased and entertaining lecture!

As a person who has always been fascinated with the empire it was educational and thoroughly enjoyable experience, I would recommend to anyone who wants to have a more in depth understanding of the British Empire and the British take on Imperialism.

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Alan Partridge makes this audio book a must listen

Fascinating lecture, good for giving a good understanding and background of the British Empire, the reader sounds like Alan Partridge which is the icing on the cake for me.

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