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The Age of Empire

1875-1914

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The Age of Empire

By: Eric Hobsbawm
Narrated by: Hugh Kermode
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The splendid finale to Eric Hobsbawm's study of the 19th century, The Age of Empire covers the area of Western Imperialism and examines the forces that swept the world to the outbreak of World War One - and shaped modern society.

©1987 Eric Hobsbawm (P)1987 Hachette Audio UK 19th Century 20th Century Europe Modern World Imperialism Socialism Capitalism Latin American War Soviet Union Middle Ages Liberalism Africa Self-Determination Social justice Russia Taxation Middle East China Economic Inequality Interwar Period
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An excellent work of historical analysis to round off the series on the long 19th century. Hobsbawn takes on numerous themes, labour, capital, diplomacy, arts, women, science etc and applies his wonderful historical analysis and lively writing style to them. If you have read and enjoyed the previous 2 books then this is essential reading.

Excellent historic analysis

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firstly, Hobsbawm must be appreciated for his viewpoints he stands out with his clear Marxist viewpoint and there are points that are inspiring but I found the narrative too all over the place. Instead of giving a clear understanding of empire. this is an excellent academic text but not for me sadly.

a really tough listen

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I’m sure there’s a good book here somewhere. But if the narrator is bored, and sounds it sadly, so am I.

Badly let down by machine like oration

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