Discover books similar to "Blood and Soil: A World History of Genocide and Extermination from Sparta to Darfur"

Ben Kiernan

Blood and Soil: A World History of Genocide and Extermination from Sparta to Darfur

"Blood and Soil: A World History of Genocide and Extermination from Sparta to Darfur" by Ben Kiernan is a comprehensive and authoritative study of genocide and extermination throughout history. Kiernan, a renowned scholar of genocide studies, presents a global perspective on the subject, examining cases from ancient times to the present day. The book is divided into three parts. The first part explores the historical roots of genocide, tracing the concept back to ancient civilizations such as Sparta and Rome. Kiernan argues that genocidal practices have been a recurring feature of human history, and that they are often linked to the emergence of the modern nation-state. The second part of the book examines genocide in the modern era, from the colonial period to the present day. Kiernan discusses cases such as the Herero and Namaqua genocide in German South-West Africa, the Armenian Genocide, the Holocaust, and the Cambodian Genocide. He argues that genocide is not an aberration, but rather a predictable outcome of certain political, social, and economic conditions. The third part of the book looks at contemporary cases of genocide and extermination, including those in Rwanda, Bosnia, and Darfur. Kiernan argues that the international community has a responsibility to prevent and punish genocide, and that this requires a better understanding of the historical and cultural factors that contribute to its occurrence. Throughout the book, Kiernan emphasizes the importance of understanding genocide as a historical and cultural phenomenon, rather than as an isolated event. He argues that genocide is not simply the result of individual evil, but rather the product of complex social, political, and economic forces. "Blood and Soil" is a valuable contribution to the field of genocide studies, and a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the historical and cultural factors that contribute to genocide and extermination. Kiernan's global perspective and thorough research make this book an essential resource for scholars, students, and policymakers alike...