American Egyptologist - The Life of James Henry Breasted and the Creation of His Oriental Institute

Jeffrey Abt

Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

Summary

James Henry Breasted (1865–1935) had a career that epitomizes our popular image of the archaeologist. Daring, handsome, and charismatic, he traveled on expeditions to remote and politically unstable corners of the Middle East, helped identify the tomb of King Tut, and was on the cover of Time magazine. But Breasted was more than an Indiana Jones—he was an accomplished scholar, academic entrepreneur, and talented author who brought ancient history to life not just for students but for such notables as Teddy Roosevelt and Sigmund Freud.In American Egyptologist, Jeffrey Abt weaves together the disparate strands of Breasted’s life, from his small-town origins following the Civil War to his evolution into the father of American Egyptology and the founder of the Oriental Institute in the early years of the University of Chicago. Abt explores the scholarly, philanthropic, diplomatic, and religious contexts of his ideas and projects, providing insight into the origins of America’s most prominent center for Near Eastern archaeology. An illuminating portrait of the nearly forgotten man who demystified ancient Egypt for the general public, American Egyptologist restores James Henry Breasted to the world and puts forward a brilliant case for his place as one of the most important scholars of modern times.

Available since: 05/01/2012.

Print length: 536 pages.

Humanities & Social Sciences

Other books that might interest you

The Pursuit of Dominance - 2000...

Christopher J. Fettweis

The United States is the most powerful actor in the international system, but it is facing a set of challenges that might lead to its decline as this century unfolds. 
 
 
 
In The Pursuit of Dominance, Christopher J. Fettweis examines the grand strategy of previous superpowers to see how they maintained, or failed to maintain, their status. Over the course of six cases, from Ancient Rome to the British Empire, he seeks guidance from the past for present US policymakers. Like the United States, the examples Fettweis uses were the world's strongest powers at particularly moments in time, and they were hoping to stay that way. Rather than focusing on those powers' rise or how they ruled, however, Fettweis looks at how they sought to maintain their power. From these cases, one paramount lesson becomes clear: Dominant powers usually survive even the most incompetent leaders. Fettweis is most interested in how these superpowers defined their interests, the grand strategies these regimes followed to maintain superiority over their rivals, and how the practice of that strategy worked. 
 
 
 
A sweeping history of grand strategy, The Pursuit of Dominance looks at the past 2,000 years to highlight what—if anything—current US strategists can learn from the experience of earlier superpowers.

Show book

The Age of Imperialism - How...

Arlo Holders

Imperialism, as a historical phenomenon, represents the policy or practice by which nations extend their influence and dominance over other territories. This expansion can occur through direct conquest, economic control, political manipulation, or cultural influence. The roots of imperialism stretch back to ancient empires such as Rome, Persia, and China, but the modern era of imperialism, often referred to as the “Age of Imperialism,” emerged in the 19th and early 20th centuries. This period was characterized by unprecedented territorial acquisitions, fueled by technological advances, economic ambitions, and shifting global power dynamics.
At its core, imperialism was driven by a combination of motives that included economic gain, political power, and a belief in cultural superiority. Industrialization played a pivotal role in shaping these ambitions, as European powers sought raw materials to fuel their growing industries and markets to sell their manufactured goods. The technological advancements of the Industrial Revolution, such as steamships, railways, and advanced weaponry, gave European nations a significant edge in their quest to dominate foreign lands.
Political and military motivations also underpinned the imperialist agenda. Nations viewed overseas colonies as symbols of prestige and power, integral to maintaining their position in a competitive global hierarchy. Strategic locations were secured to control vital trade routes, ensuring access to global markets and protecting national interests. This race for dominance often led to conflicts among colonial powers, as each sought to outmaneuver the other in gaining influence over untapped regions.

Show book

Elevate SAT Exam Readiness:...

Jasper Lindwood

Elevate SAT Exam Readiness: Strategies for Success and Confidence 
⭐⭐ Simplified Guide & Explanations Included ⭐⭐ 
Are you eager to advance your education and enhance your skills by excelling in the SAT Exam? 
In search of an all-inclusive guide that equips you with everything necessary to confidently tackle the SAT Exam? 
Look no further! 
This guide is your ultimate resource for deepening your understanding, honing your skills, and engaging in practical exercises. With it, you'll be well-prepared for success. 
Updated for the 2024-2025 SAT Exam Structure. 
Key highlights of this comprehensive guide include: 
- In-depth insights about the SAT Exam Certification 
- Thorough explanations of essential SAT concepts 
- Effective strategies for exam preparation and test-taking 
Our guide stands out with its exhaustive approach, crucial for your exam success. Concepts are not only touched upon; they are explored in depth with clarity. 
Please note that this guide is an independent resource and is not affiliated with any official SAT organization. 
Designed with a clear layout and straightforward language, our SAT Exam Guide ensures seamless transitions between topics. Say goodbye to confusing jargon and embrace content that is clear, accurate, and easy to understand. 
So, why wait? Click the BUY NOW button, secure your guide, and embark on your journey to SAT Exam success! 
Elevate your SAT preparation today!

Show book

Missy's Guide - How to transform...

Melissa (Missy) Weikel

Weikel inspires readers to dance for the Lord in this debut Christian work.For a time when she was younger, Weikel turned to stripping to support herself and her daughter. The shame she felt—rooted in sexual abuse she suffered as a child—was so great, she needed to numb the pain with drinking and drugs. It could have been enough to keep Weikel from ever dancing again, but she found ways to overcome her fears and dance like no one was watching—well, except for one being. “There is nothing more powerful than dancing with our heavenly father,” writes Weikel in her introduction. “Feeling his presence and love as I move across the floor is the ultimate high. I finally shed the care about what others think and know how much God loves me.” With this book, Weikel hopes to help others who feel trepidation about dancing find their inner Ginger Rogers. Dance, according to the author, is a form of worship—one that doubles as a source of healing for the dancer. Through personal anecdotes, explorations of Scripture, and dance exercises, Weikel encourages her readers to leave it all on the dance floor at the next wedding they attend or even to enjoy a solo dance party in the mirror. Weikel’s prose is enthusiastic and mystical, full of accounts of personal rituals and attestations about hearing God: “Today as I lit the final fire of the year and began to think about how the seasons change, I was overwhelmed by what the Holy Spirit downloaded as I was sweeping up the mess that the wood and paper make. God said, ‘You are approaching a new season, and I know you have felt all over the place like all this dust and dirt you are sweeping.’ ” It’s a short book at only 50 pages (including several full-page black-and-white photos). While probably not for everyone, Weikel’s open-hearted, judgment-free approach will undoubtedly speak to certain Christian readers who want a bit more dancing in their lives.A slim, inspiring work rooted in the author’s practice of dance-as-worship.

Show book

Northern Virginia Luminaries

Joe Motheral

Journalist Joe Motheral tells the stories of prominent locals met and interviewed over the course of his long career. People from all over the US and the world move to northern Virginia to be close to the nation's capital, and many people of national importance make their home in the area. There are as many more, born and raised here, who are well known to locals. Become acquainted with a selection of iconic Virginians, with varying personalities and a variety of fulfilling lives. Read about Geraldine Brooks, Roger Mudd and General George C. Marshall, as well as local heroes.

Show book

Smarter Decisions and Sharp...

Isaac Marlowe

Smarter Decisions and Sharp Thinking: Conquer Logical Fallacies Instantly 
Are you aiming to advance in your career and enhance your cognitive skills by mastering logical fallacies? 
Seeking a comprehensive guide that provides all the necessary tools to effectively sharpen your thinking? 
Your search ends here! 
This guide serves as your definitive companion for deepening your understanding, applying your skills, and engaging in hands-on exercises. With this, you're set up for success. 
Key features of this enriched guide: 
- Profound insights about Enhancing Decisions and Sharpening Thinking 
- Detailed explanations on Conquering Logical Fallacies 
- Effective strategies for mastering logical thinking and tackling cognitive challenges 
Our guide distinguishes itself through comprehensive coverage, which is essential for cognitive mastery. Concepts aren't merely skimmed; they are delved into with precision. 
Please note that this guide is not affiliated with any official entity and is purely an independent resource for your benefit. 
Designed with a clear structure and easy-to-understand language, our Guide ensures smooth transitions between topics. Say goodbye to dense jargon and welcome clear, precise, and technically accurate content. 
So, why wait? Click the BUY NOW button, secure your guide, and begin your journey to successful decision-making and sharp thinking!

Show book