Presents readers with the most important scientific advances in history, from the idea that Earth is round to the discovery of DNA. The book features historic photos, engaging sidebars, and thought-provoking prompts.

Presents readers with the most important inventions in history, from the wheel to the Internet. The book features historic photos, engaging sidebars, and thought-provoking prompts.

I think, therefore I am … influential. Leading philosophers conduct a rational investigation of truth to arrive at a set of principles that others believe and adopt. This compendium of the world's greatest thinkers includes the likes of Confucius, Aristotle, Immanuel Kant, Hannah Arendt, and René Descartes.

There are few tools more powerful than the written word. Writers who finely hone their craft possess the ability to spread messages, change minds, or merely create something beautiful. As shown in the pages of this volume, masterful writers through the ages have run the gamut from early dramatists and poets such as Aristophanes, Sophocles, and Shakespeare to successful modern-day novelists, including Toni Morrison, Salman Rushdie, and J.K. Rowling....

Welcome to a veritable feast for readers' eyes, minds, and, by extension, ears. Filled with profiles of truly accomplished musicians across a broad spectrum of musical styles and genres, this volume includes such varied musical artists as Ludwig von Beethoven, Elvis Presley, and hip-hop artist Jay-Z.

The Renaissance was a fantastic period of rebirth in terms of art and culture. This book recounts the struggles and victories of the most celebrated artists who lived and worked at this time. The masterpieces of Leonardo da Vinci, Pieter Bruegel, Sandro Botticelli, and others are highlighted.

The life of an entertainer goes beyond the technical training of vocalists or hours spent in the acting studio perfecting dramatic techniques. Entertainment is about holding an audience's attention, and with modern media, the bar is constantly being raised for what will captivate audiences. This collection of biographies details one hundred of the most influential entertainers of all time. It includes the best-known actors, comedians, directors, and...

Technology has existed for as long as humankind has invented items that improve and enhance daily living. The innovators of technology profiled in this comprehensive resource have affected nearly every facet of life, from transportation and communication to science and entertainment. Their developments have built upon one another, each a stepping-stone toward even greater advances in technology. Their names range from the familiar-such as Thomas Edison-to...

Presents readers with the most important musicians in history, from Mozart to Michael Jackson. The book features historic photos, engaging sidebars, and thought-provoking prompts.