Decline in History

This book explores the decline of European civilizations, offering insights into historical cycles of progress and decline. Decline in History fills a crucial gap in comparative studies.

In Decline in History, the author presents a thorough examination of the decline of European civilizations from ancient times to the present. The book emphasizes the importance of studying decline in history, arguing that it deserves as much focus as the concept of progress. Through detailed case studies, including Ancient Rome, the Byzantine Empire, and the histories of Spain and Portugal, the text explores the multifaceted nature of decline across various contexts.

The author draws on the works of prominent historians such as Immanuel Wallerstein and Fernand Braudel to analyze how cultural and technical skills have diffused over time, creating cycles of progress and decline. This examination highlights the unique characteristics of European civilization, particularly its political pluralism and economic dynamism, which have led to declines that are more localized ('micro') rather than sweeping ('macro').

Thomson's structured narrative traverses significant historical events, from the fall of Rome to the declines of Italy, Spain, and Portugal. He differentiates between the decline of regions within Spain, such as Castile, Andalucia, and Aragon, suggesting that these declines were part of broader upheavals affecting the western Mediterranean and central Europe. Decline in History serves as a vital resource for students and scholars interested in European and comparative history, offering a fresh perspective on the complexities of historical decline.