A New York Times Notable Book for 2011 A Globe and Mail Best Books of the Year 2011 TitleA Kirkus Reviews Best Nonfiction of 2011 title Virtually all human societies were once organized tribally; yet over time most developed new political institutions which included a central state that could keep the peace and uniform laws that applied to all citizens. Some went on to create governments that were accountable to their constituents. We take these institutions for granted; but they are absent or are unable to perform in many of today's developing countries―with often disastrous consequences for the rest of the world.Francis Fukuyama; author of the bestselling The End of History and the Last Man and one of our most important political thinkers; provides a sweeping account of how today's basic political institutions developed. The first of a major two-volume work; The Origins of Political Order begins with politics among our primate ancestors and follows the story through the emergence of tribal societies; the growth of the first modern state in China; the beginning of the rule of law in India and the Middle East; and the development of political accountability in Europe up until the eve of the French Revolution.Drawing on a vast body of knowledge―history; evolutionary biology; archaeology; and economics―Fukuyama has produced a brilliant; provocative work that offers fresh insights on the origins of democratic societies and raises essential questions about the nature of politics and its discontents.
#175553 in Books Jackson Joe 2016-10-25 2016-10-25Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.12 x 1.88 x 6.28l; .0 #File Name: 0374253307624 pagesBlack Elk The Life of an American Visionary
Review
7 of 7 people found the following review helpful. TruthBy David NicholsTruth is told from front to back one can only hope God will forgive us for what we did to the people. Wonderful read.4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. Outstanding Work on a Worthy SubjectBy Jim CharlesJoe Jackson has written an outstanding study of a subject worthy of such treatment. American history is full of people like people--influential; important; significant; and interesting; however; they are neglected or under-valued by scholars fixated on generals; presidents; and "titans" of business.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Along with being good for those interested in Black Elk individuallyBy DKLAlong with being good for those interested in Black Elk individually; it is also a great introduction for those; like myself; who previously knew nothing about the history of US - Plains Indians interactions throughout the latter half of the 19th century.
