A blog devoted to the research and teaching of the history of humanity, aimed at enlivening the teaching of history, linking it to current social problems and debates.
Great Powers Decline But Persist
The G7 nations or Western powers remain wealthy, but other nations are becoming their equals. Here are four chapters on significant trends and events that continue to shape the future of the G7 nations—and the world order.
Language, Migration, and Social Change
As a reminder of the value and the practical usability of language evidence for human history, here is a set of four case studies of the distribution and migration of language communities and the associated social change.
BRICS and the Changing Global Order
Founded in 2009, BRICS is a recent development of international politics and economics. What are this group's primary aims? How has it shifted the global order? And in what ways does BRICS coexist, interact, or conflict with other global forums, such as the G7 and G20?
Ethnic Groups Make History
In his new book, historian James Quirin examines the oral traditions, cultural practices, and written records of the Beta Israel, a community of farmers and artisans who lived near the Ethiopian kingdom. Quirin uncovers a lively historical record, showing how small ethnic groups can create significant historical change.
UNESCO—the U.S. Rejoins
The United States is set to rejoin UNESCO. As a member state, the U.S. will pay annual dues and participate in global discussions ranging from global cultural heritage to regulations on the use of artificial intelligence.
V-Dem 2023 Report on Global Democracy
V-Dem's 2023 Democracy Report shows that the overall level of democracy has, in recent years, fallen back to levels not seen since 1986. This essay helps readers explore the report to evaluate the details of democracy and autocracy in any nation
How Are Ideas About Evolution Evolving? Part Three
This essay, the conclusion of a three-part series, explores the seventh phase of human evolution: the expanding scale of social organization.
How Are Ideas About Evolution Evolving? Part Two
This post—the second in a three-part series—builds on the main categories and dynamics of human evolutionary change established in part one. I outline six phases of human evolution, exploring different models and hypotheses of growth and change.