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Audiobooks Narrated by Peter Hackes
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Colombia in the 1980s became known for its role in the illegal drug trade, and for political instability and violence caused by this problem. But much of this is a recent development in Colombia’s history that began in the 1530s, when Spain conquered local Indian kingdoms.
This is the story of how Spain’s “new Granada” evolved into Venezuela, Ecuador, Panama, and modern Colombia.
Central Europe’s ancient civilizations have long been dominated by empires: The Roman Empire, the Habsburg Empire (based in Austria) and more recently, the Soviet Communist. But the decline of communism in the late twentieth century has unleashed old resentments, rivalries, and ambitions that have caused yet more war in this troubled region.
By the end of World War I, Britain had promised control of Palestine to both Arabs and Jews. Each of these peoples claimed a longstanding right to the same piece of land, and violence was inevitable. This presentation examines how and why this magical land has become a virtual war zone.
South Africa has become the world's symbol of racism. From the moment the Dutch colonists set foot on the Cape in 1652, this nation has steered a straight course toward apartheid; civil unrest has resulted. These tapes explore the economic and social forces that have brought South Africa into the spotlight of international condemnation.
Strategically located, The Philippine Islands have been one of the keys to American policy in the Pacific. But this loose island chain has a better history, vacillating between oppression and rebellion. America's military installations here ensure that she will be caught in any Filipino conflict.
The lands surrounding the Mediterranean Sea contain some of the oldest cultures on Earth. Italy and the other countries of Europe and North Africa have played a central role in various expanding empires –and also in shrinking fortunes. This presentation explores the broad sweep of history in one of the cradles of civilization.
More than half of the world"s oil comes from Persian Gulf states. Political instability and religious strife here threaten to interrupt the world"s economic routines. This presentation examines the history of Persia, Iran's attempt to westernize, and the backlash of religiously fervent Moslems against the West and against each other.
Thailand, Laos and Burma have been known as the "Golden Triangle" because of their historically prominent role in the drug trade. For centuries, these countries have produced the opium that has attracted traders from Europe and elsewhere. Economics, religion, and politics combine to make this area not only important but also (to the western mind) exotic.
Recent events have made it clear that the Soviet Union is not a monolith; it's a collection of nationalities, many with serious objections to union. The demise of communism holds great promise and great danger not only for the Soviets, but for the world. These tapes examine how the region's long history led to modern reality.
The breakdown of Europe's Eastern Bloc proves that the map of Europe cannot be redrawn merely to serve political ends. Perhaps no country illustrates this more clearly than Poland, whose borders often have been a negotiating tool of the Big Powers. These cassettes enlighten our understanding of the current drama in Eastern Europe.
With a culture dating back to at least 700 B.C., West Africa has a long and rich history. British influence after the 16th century, and especially in the 18th century, changed the region's course. By 1967, Nigeria was at war with itself-with the "Republic of Biafra: proclaimed in Nigeria's eastern region. Over a million people perished. This is the story of Nigeria's Struggle, which typifies the history and outlook of the West Africa region.
In 1540, Mexico was declared to be New Spain. With a diverse culture and great natural resources, it should have prospered like its northern neighbor. But Mexico's history includes political corruption, war, revolution and grinding poverty. Why has the fate of Mexico been so different than that of The United States?
