Take a seat on the front lines of the past, and experience history and the evolution of Western thought from the perspectives of everyday citizens, prominent public figures, celebrated authors and philosophers, and more. This collection of over 400 primary sources -- with introductory essays to help you get the most out of each reading, and review questions to help you check your understanding -- emphasizes the intellectual history and values of the Western tradition. Sources are grouped around important themes in European history, including developments in intellectual and religious thought, warfare, revolution, and socio-economic change. And because history is always in the making, you'll also find essays on current topics and vexing issues that you read about in the news, including the European Union, ISIS, and Muslim immigration in Europe.