Jacques Pirenne, the world famous Belgian historian and son of the equally distinguished Henri Pirenne, has here completed a study of universal history, covering the whole of civilization from the beginnings to the most recent events of the 1950's.

Professor Pirenne does not confine himself to political events; he traces the development of trade, economy and social conditions and devotes much space to art, architecture, currency and the development of religious and political thinking.

Gigantic in its scope this study is remarkable for its lucidity and its comprehensiveness. It is a truly majestic ride encompassing the Incas, Babylon, Ancient Egypt, through to the middle ages, the renaissance, indeed every important historical event of man.