Other books that might interest you

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  Sui Dynasty - Reunification and...

  Rolf Hedger

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  The period before the rise of the Sui Dynasty was marked by fragmentation and instability, as China remained divided between the Northern and Southern Dynasties. This era, which lasted from the late 4th century to the late 6th century, was characterized by constant warfare, shifting alliances, and a deep cultural divide between the north and south. The fall of this system set the stage for the reunification of China under the Sui Dynasty. 
  The north was ruled by a succession of non-Han Chinese states, often founded by nomadic groups that had migrated into China during the decline of the Western Jin Dynasty. The Northern Wei, established by the Tuoba clan of the Xianbei people, was the most powerful of these states. Over time, the rulers of the Northern Wei adopted Chinese customs, Confucian governance, and Buddhism, which helped stabilize their rule. However, internal struggles, court intrigue, and opposition from powerful aristocratic families led to the dynasty’s division into the Eastern and Western Wei, eventually giving rise to the Northern Qi and Northern Zhou dynasties. 
  In contrast, the Southern Dynasties were ruled by Han Chinese elites who maintained a more traditional Chinese way of life. The Eastern Jin, followed by the Liu Song, Southern Qi, Liang, and Chen dynasties, governed the southern regions, centered around the lower Yangtze River. These dynasties often suffered from weak central control, as powerful noble families exerted significant influence over the government. While the south was culturally rich and economically prosperous, political instability and frequent coups weakened its ability to resist northern invasions.

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  Barbs from the Bard -...

  Francis K DeNuit, Roger Rees

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  Ever wish you had an immediate snappy comeback or a perfect putdown? We all have, only to later think of what we could— or should— have said. Then who better to call on than Shakespeare, who mastered the art of dramatic conflict with rapier wit rather than swordplay? This audiobook is an entertaining and witty collection of some of the most cutting jeers and outrageous affronts ever spoken. Never miss an opportunity for a well-aimed insult by borrowing from the Bard. With access to Shakespeare's witty world of words, this is the ideal resource for those moments you don't want to let slip by without comment.

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  Mapuche Empire - The Defenders...

  Rolf Hedger

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  The origins of the Mapuche people trace back thousands of years, long before the arrival of Europeans in South America. They are one of the most resilient and enduring indigenous groups in the region, with a deep-rooted history in present-day Chile and Argentina. Archaeological evidence suggests that their ancestors inhabited these lands for at least 2,000 years, developing a distinct culture shaped by the diverse landscapes of the Andean foothills, valleys, and coastal regions. 
  The name "Mapuche" itself reflects their strong connection to the land, as it derives from "mapu" (earth) and "che" (people), meaning "people of the land." This bond influenced their way of life, from agriculture to spiritual beliefs. They cultivated maize, potatoes, quinoa, and beans while also engaging in hunting, fishing, and gathering. Unlike some of the great civilizations of South America, such as the Inca or the Maya, the Mapuche did not build massive stone cities. Instead, they lived in small, scattered settlements made up of rucas, traditional thatched-roof houses constructed from wood and straw, designed to withstand the varied climate of their territories. 
  Language played a crucial role in shaping the Mapuche identity. They spoke Mapudungun, a unique language that remains central to their culture today. Unlike the Quechua language of the Andes, which spread widely due to the influence of the Inca Empire, Mapudungun remained relatively isolated, preserving its distinct linguistic structure. Oral tradition was the primary means of passing down knowledge, with elders recounting stories, myths, and historical events that shaped the collective memory of the Mapuche people.

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  HowExpert Guide to Converting a...

  HowExpert, Cassie Moesner

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  If you want to learn how to convert a school bus, van, or other vehicle into a tiny traveling house on wheels, then check out HowExpert Guide to Converting a Vehicle into a Tiny Travel Home. 
  Traveling the world from the comfort of your home is something that many people dream about but seldom do. Converting a vehicle into your home allows you to do this and so much more. Creating a vehicle into a tiny home allows you to live more minimally, freely, and inexpensively. This book teaches you step by step how to convert any vehicle into a tiny home and the best tips to know along the way. 
  Converting a vehicle into a tiny home can be timely and difficult. This book doesn’t elaborate on every detail of a conversion build, but it does explain and give advice on most conversion details. Use this book as a guide to learn all of the possibilities you have while converting your rig. Most people don’t know that not every rig conversion is the same. There are differences in design, budget, and practicality, and this book is here to help you decide what is best for you and your tiny home. In this book, HowExpert Guide to Converting a Vehicle into a Tiny Home, you will learn the most popular options available for your build and the pros and cons of each. You will also learn how to prepare for the road outside of completing your tiny home build. As you finish reading these 101 tips, you should feel prepared to build out your first rig and begin traveling on the road. 
  Check out HowExpert Guide to Converting a Vehicle into a Tiny Travel Home to convert a school bus, van, or other vehicle into a tiny traveling house on wheels! 
  About the Author 
  Cassie is currently living full-time out of her converted short school bus. She recently graduated from Ohio University with a degree in Management and Strategic Leadership and Outdoor Recreation. 
  HowExpert publishes how to guides by everyday experts. Visit HowExpert.com to learn more.

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  Fashion Forever and The Shape of...

  WILL HODGE, SUSIE GOMPERTZ,...

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  Embark on a transformative journey through the captivating realms of fashion and modern art with this enlightening 2-in-1 bundle. Invites you to explore the evolution of style and the profound impact of modern art on society, offering essential insights into the dynamic interplay between creativity, culture, and identity. 
  What to Expect: 
  1. Fashion Forever: Journey through the Ever-Changing World of Style 
  Step into the glamorous world of fashion and discover the timeless allure of style through the ages.identities. 
  2. The Shape of Ideas: How Modern Art Shook the World 
  Dive into the revolutionary landscape of modern art and uncover the seismic shifts that transformed the artistic landscape forever. From the avant-garde movements of the early 20th century to the boundary-pushing innovations of today, this part of the bundle illuminates the bold visionaries who challenged convention and redefined the very essence of art. 
  3. Connection and Inspiration: 
  Cultivate a deeper connection to the world of style and art, and gain fresh inspiration for your own creative journey. 
  4. Adaptation and Innovation: 
  Embrace the spirit of adaptation and innovation as you navigate the ever-changing landscape of fashion and art. 
  5. Personal Expression and Empowerment: 
  Unlock the secrets of self-expression and empowerment as you explore the dynamic interplay between fashion, art, and personal identity. 
  Embark on a journey of creativity, discovery, and self-expression. Whether you're a fashionista, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about the transformative power of style and art, this bundle offers a roadmap for exploring the ever-changing landscape of creativity and unlocking the boundless possibilities of self-expression and personal empowerment.

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  Art History Realism

  Henri Hymans

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  From a historical perspective, Realism stands as a pivotal reaction against the extravagances of Romanticism, emerging in a time rife with social and political upheaval brought about by the Industrial Revolution. Artists like Gustave Courbet, the movement’s vanguard, along with Jean-Baptiste Corot, Honoré Daumier, Henri Fantin-Latour, Édouard Manet, and Jean-François Millet, shifted the artistic lens from the fantastic to the tangible, painting the world around them with unprecedented fidelity.
  These pioneers, renowned for their depictions of everyday life and social commentary, employed innovative techniques to capture the light, texture, and movement of the real world. Their works, often categorised under social realism, challenged conventions and laid the groundwork for Impressionism and the modern art movements that followed. Realism’s legacy, underscored by its commitment to depicting the truth of human experience, continues to resonate, offering a mirror to the contemporary world’s complexities. How does the realism of yesterday speak to the reality of today? Dive into the pages to explore the enduring power of Realism in art and society.

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