The story of the origins of the British and the Irish peoples, from the end of the last Ice Age around 10,000BC to the eve of the Norman Conquest - who they were, where they came from, and how they related to one another.

The British Empire influenced many aspects of the world we live in today. The international system remains heavily marked by British imperialism, and the borders, nations, and federations it created. This Very Short Introduction introduces and defines the British Empire, reviewing how it evolved into such a force, and the legacy it left behind.

W. J. Mander presents the first ever synoptic history of British Idealism, the school of thought which dominated English-language philosophy from the 1860s to the early 20th century. He restores to its proper place this neglected period of philosophy, introducing the exponents of Idealism and explaining its distinctive concepts and doctrines.

Draws on the contribution of three political scientists and redresses the balance between the historical context of British Politics and key theoretical debates. This text combines a descriptive account of the institutions and processes of the British political system with an engaging discussion of issues and policies.

In this seminal reassessment of the historical foundation of British counter doctrine and practice, David French challenges our understanding that in the two decades after 1945 the British discovered a kinder and gentler way of waging war amongst the people.

Guides the readers through the complex information that Buddhist texts give about the life and teaching of the Buddha. The author discusses the social and political background of India in the Buddha's time, and traces the development of his thought. He also assesses the rapid and widespread assimilation of Buddhism and its contemporary relevance.

In the new edition of this lively and accessible Very Short Introduction to Buddhism, Damien Keown looks at all the distinctive features of the major world faith; examining the development of Buddhist thought over the centuries, its impact on daily life in contemporary society, and the spread of Buddhism throughout the world.