Readings in Water History

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Readings in Water History offers students a carefully curated selection of readings addressing major topics in global water history. The articles illuminate the history of humanity’s relationship with water, waterways, aquatic environments, and ecologies. The text introduces readers to essential questions and themes in water history and provides a wide range of perspectives on how past societies interacted with the waters around them.

Section I explores human attempts to harness water’s potential and guard against its hazards. The relationship between water and early civilizations is addressed, with documents exploring ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and China. In Section II, students read about how humans have used water and aquatic resources as tools of generating human wealth, agriculture, industry, and creativity. Section III focuses on drinking water, sanitation, pollution, and disease. In Section IV, readings explore water as a means of leisure and a connection to the good life. The final section speaks to the interconnected nature of water, war, and diplomacy, showing how struggles and agreements have resulted over claims and use of this essential resource.

Featuring an historical focus and illuminating sources, Readings in Water History is ideal for courses in environmental history.