Journey to the romantic land of Italy and meet the artists, warriors, and leaders who forever left their mark on Western culture. Perhaps no country has had such a lasting impact on Western culture as Italy. Whether it's the frescoes of the Renaissance, the politics of ancient Rome, or the struggles of the Catholic Church, Italy holds a central place on the world's stage. But how much do you actually know about Italy and its history? You've likely heard of Rome, Florence, and Pompeii. But do you know about the Etruscans, who laid the foundations of modern civilization way back in the 6th century BCE? Do you know what happened between the fall of Rome and the rise of the Renaissance? Or how and why Mussolini came to power in WWII? This book gives a brief but detailed overview of Italy's grand, sweeping history, from ancient city-state to modern cultural mecca. You'll learn about: The strange burial practices of the early Etruscans The real story of Rome's most infamous leader, Julius Caesar How politics and heresies plagued the early Catholic Church Why Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and others flocked to Florence as the hub of Renaissance culture The intriguing 15th-century conspiracy to assassinate the Medici family Mussolini's terrifying quest to establish a dominant, fascist Italy Why the rich, vibrant land of Italy still captures our imaginations today And much more. Whether you're a student of Italian history looking for a refresher, a brand new learner looking for an introduction, or a future traveler looking to enhance your experience, this book is a concise, easy-to-read overview of the major players, events, and forces in Italian history, from antiquity to today. After reading this book, you'll be able to: Engage in discussions about Italy's history, art, and culture Understand the role of Italy in shaping Western civilization Fully appreciate important Italian sites and artifacts Take your study of Italy's history and culture deeper Ready to dive into the rich, fascinating history of Italy? Want to discover the true story behind some of the greatest thinkers, artists, and warriors who ever lived? Scroll up and click the "Add to Cart" button to begin your journey.