Butt offers concise factual snapshots of important milestones and major contributions to world history, and defines aspects of various cultures. This volume was created in conjunction with educational standards for history education set by the National Council for History Education, the National Center for History in the Schools, the World History Association, and the College Board World History Advanced Placement Test, among others. With more than 2,000 A-Z entries and over 50 pages of world maps denoting trade routes and historical eras and entries that include cultural and war definitions (e.g., foot binding, Iraq War), this dictionary is meant to support the history curriculum of any high school or undergraduate world history course. Topical lists of entries help users pinpoint a particular region or era. A small section of suggested Web sites is included….[a]n excellent source for high school and first-year college students and those with a general interest in world history. Recommended. Lower-level undergraduates and general readers.

Choice

More than 2000 cross-referenced A-to-Z entries offer brief definitions or explanations of world religions, scientific events, wars, military leaders, inventions, discoveries, and more from prehistoric to modern times and are indexed by region, period, and theme; the bibliography with each entry relates to the entry's subject. Entries range from Aachen, Charlemagne's capital, to noted Swiss reformer Zwingli. There is an emphasis on Middle Eastern, Asian, African, and Latin American history. In comparison to the Oxford Dictionary of World History, this eclectic title contains a clearer, easier-to-read format, larger maps (70 in all), web sites, and other updated features….[d]esigned to be consulted for small bits of information or in answering quick questions-this could be considered a useful complement to more comprehensive works and would serve well as a cost-effective starting place for young searchers, encouraging continued exploration on their topics. Recommended for middle and high school libraries and smaller public libraries.

Library Journal

What is truly impressive is the sheer scope and scale of the Dictionary's international coverage… [A] decidedly useful work of reference for libraries on both sides of the Atlantic.

Reference Reviews

This solid, accessible book is global in range, spanning prehistory to the present day. Its clear, pithy text provides good introductions and/or fine refreshers on diverse topics that might be of use to students rather than encyclopedic coverage. Inclusion criteria were based on various history education standards and Advanced Placement test guidelines.

School Library Journal

The information is accurate and current. A list of history Web sites is helpful, and the bibliography at the end of the volume includes very recent publications. The accurate index furthers the overall helpfulness of this volume….[i]ts strengths in topics beyond U.S. history and the fact that is was developed on widely accepted guidelines makes it especially valuable for students, teachers, and librarians as an initial reference source. An approachable, one-stop resource for students needing a quick definition.

Booklist/Reference Books Bulletin