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Wealth, Power, and Inequality in World History Vol. 1 features a unique global focus on political and economic affairs, demonstrating the close interaction between these two subjects throughout the course of world history. The text explores the ever-changing allocation of wealth and power both within individual societies and among different political entities, such as city-states, nations, and empires.

Over the course of 17 chapters, this volume discusses the ways in which ruling elites have wielded wealth and power to increase their own privileges, suppress frequent internal revolts, and wage war against foreign entities. Opening chapters cover the beginnings of social inequality at the dawn of humankind, the Agricultural Revolution, the formation of city-states and empires in Mesopotamia, and early empires in Asia, Africa, and Mesoamerica. Students read about the Roman world, the unification of China through the Qin and Han dynasties, the fragmentation of Europe, trade and states in sub-Saharan Africa, the early Americas, and more. Images, maps, and discussion questions throughout inspire student engagement and support the overall learning experience.

Wealth, Power, and Inequality in World History Vol. 1 is the first installment in a two-book series. The books are well suited for introductory courses in world history.