Something New Under the Sun : An Environmental History of the World in the 20th Century

The history of the twentieth century is most often told through its world wars, the rise and fall of communism, or its economic upheavals. In his startling new book, J. R. McNeill gives us our first general account of what may prove to be the most significant dimension of the twentieth its environmental history. To a degree unprecedented in human history, we have refashioned the earth’s air, water, and soil, and the biosphere of which we are a part. Based on exhaustive research, McNeill’s story—a compelling blend of anecdotes, data, and shrewd analysis—never it is our definitive account. This is a volume in The Global Century Series (general editor, Paul Kennedy).ContentsList of maps and tablesForeword by Paul KennedyAcknowledgmentsPreface1. Peculiarities of a Prodigal CenturyPART THE MUSIC OF THE SPHERES2. The Litosphere and The Crust of the Earth3. The Urban History4. The Regional and Global History5. The The History of Water Use and Water Pollution6. The Depletions, Dams, and Diversions7. The Eat and Be Eaten8. The Forests, Fish, and InvasionsPART ENGINES OF CHANGE9. More People, Bigger Cities10. Fuels, Tools, and Economics11. Ideas and Politics12. So What?BibliographyCreditsIndex