Other books that might interest you

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  Fish Town

  John Gerard Fagan

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  "For years my life had been a string of temporary work in factories and call centres or unemployed. Approaching 30 and disillusioned with life in Glasgow, I sold everything I had and left for a new life in a remote fishing village in Japan. I knew nothing of the language or the strange new land that I would call home for the next seven years. Fish Town is an eye-opening true story that paints the reality of living in Japan as an outsider."
  John's debut memoir, written entirely on his phone, reads like a book of poetry or perhaps a long text message. This gifted writer captures the experience of a Scottish man living in Japan – with humour, wit, honesty, and by all means without an ounce of political correctness.
  "Periods of hopelessness and despair are perfectly blended with hilarity and hope, instantly giving off vibes of Post Office by Charles Bukowski. Fagan's delivery is poignant and purposeful, with writing so crisp it's easy to fly through the pages. Truly a book I will never forget." – Aidan Martin, author of Euphoric Recall

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  Asuka Period - Buddhism Reform...

  Rolf Hedger

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  The Asuka Period (538–710) marks a pivotal era in Japan’s history, serving as the transitional phase between the ancient Kofun Period and the Nara Period. This era is often considered the birthplace of Japanese civilization, a time when the political, religious, and cultural foundations of the nation began to take shape. It was during this period that Japan first came into direct contact with continental Asia, particularly through the introduction of Buddhism, the establishment of a centralized government, and the adoption of Chinese-style political and legal systems. 
  The early years of the Asuka Period were dominated by the Soga clan, who played a crucial role in the political and religious developments of the time. Their influence can be seen in their advocacy for the adoption of Buddhism, which arrived in Japan from Korea around the mid-sixth century. Buddhism’s introduction, however, was met with resistance from the powerful native Shinto religious leaders and aristocracy, creating a conflict that would shape the religious landscape of Japan for centuries to come. 
  Despite early opposition, Buddhism gradually took hold in Japan. The Soga clan, with the support of the royal family, used Buddhism as a tool to consolidate power and gain legitimacy. By the late 6th century, the religion had become deeply integrated into the fabric of Japanese society, influencing not only spiritual practices but also politics, art, and culture.

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  The Greek War of Independence -...

  Nova Ashford

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  The Greek War of Independence, which began in 1821, was the culmination of centuries of subjugation under the Ottoman Empire. The Ottoman Turks had ruled over Greece since the fall of Constantinople in 1453, imposing their control over the Greek-speaking territories of the Eastern Mediterranean. While the Greeks endured under Ottoman rule for nearly four centuries, various socio-political, religious, and economic factors fostered the desire for independence. These factors would eventually fuel a revolution that would reshape Greece’s future and contribute to the broader wave of nationalistic movements across Europe in the 19th century. 
  The Ottoman Empire's control over Greece was characterized by a rigid hierarchical structure. While Greeks were allowed to practice their religion and maintain certain aspects of their culture, they were treated as second-class citizens, subject to high taxes and military conscription. This created deep resentment and a longing for autonomy. However, resistance to Ottoman rule was sporadic and often crushed by the overwhelming power of the Empire. The Greeks, scattered across various islands and mainland regions, lacked the unity needed to mount an effective challenge to Ottoman authority. 
  One of the key elements that ignited the desire for Greek independence was the rise of nationalist and revolutionary ideas in Europe during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The French Revolution of 1789 had sparked waves of liberalism and nationalism across the continent, and these ideas reached Greece through intellectuals, students, and traders. The Enlightenment ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity resonated with many Greeks, who saw them as a path toward the freedom they had been denied for centuries.

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  Samurai of Ancient Japan -...

  Kelly Mass

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  What did the samurai in Japan do? How did they begin? And what was so typical or different about them? 
  These and many other questions will be answered in this quick guide that will cover all the basics of the famous samurai warriors in ancient Japan. You will learn about shoguns, bushido, the Meiji time period, ronin warriors, the Genpei war in 1180, the Kamakura period, the infamous suicide methods for honor (hara-kiri), and much, much more.

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  Satavahana Empire - Buddhism...

  Rolf Hedger

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  The Satavahana Empire, one of the earliest and most influential dynasties in ancient India, emerged in the Deccan region after the decline of the Mauryan Empire. The origins of the Satavahanas remain a subject of historical debate, but they are believed to have belonged to the Andhra region, gaining prominence as local chieftains before consolidating their rule into a powerful dynasty. Their rise marked a significant transition in Indian history, bridging the gap between the Mauryan administration and later regional powers. 
  The early history of the Satavahanas is primarily reconstructed through inscriptions, numismatic evidence, and references in ancient texts. The Puranas mention them as the Andhra dynasty, while inscriptions such as the Naneghat and Nasik inscriptions provide valuable insights into their rulers and governance. The first known ruler of the dynasty, Simuka, is credited with establishing Satavahana rule by overthrowing remnants of Mauryan authority in the Deccan and expanding his control over parts of present-day Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. His successors continued to strengthen the empire, laying the foundation for centuries of Satavahana dominance. 
  Following Simuka, his brother and successor Krishna further expanded the territory, but it was under the reign of Satakarni I that the empire gained considerable power. Satakarni I led successful military campaigns, extending his influence northward to the Narmada region and challenging the Shunga and Kshatrapa rulers. His achievements were commemorated in inscriptions and coins, some of which depict him performing Vedic sacrifices such as the Ashvamedha, indicating his aspirations for imperial legitimacy. This period also saw the Satavahanas emerging as key players in trade, administration, and culture, integrating diverse communities into their governance system.

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  Among the Quiet Lands

  Reece Davis

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  Beyond the noise of modern travel lies a world that moves to a slower rhythm — a world still ruled by silence, patience, and grace. 
  In Among the Quiet Lands, acclaimed travel writer Reece Davis journeys to the planet’s most remote and unhurried places — from wind-battered monasteries in the Himalayas to forgotten villages deep within Patagonia’s valleys. Along the way, he meets those who have chosen to live close to the earth and far from the rush of progress. 
  Through poetic observation and vivid encounters, Davis reflects on what vanishes when the world moves too fast — and what we rediscover when we choose to linger, listen, and simply be. 
  A meditation on solitude, slowness, and the enduring beauty of the unspoiled, Among the Quiet Lands invites readers to pause — and to see stillness not as absence, but as presence.

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