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The Great Game

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( 8,884 ratings, 800 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Great Game by Peter Hopkirk is a gripping historical account detailing the strategic rivalry and clandestine intelligence operations between the British and Russian Empires in Central Asia during the 19th century. This engaging narrative explores the adventures and espionage activities that unfolded in remote and uncharted territories, shaping geopolitical landscapes and influencing imperial ambitions. Through vivid storytelling, Hopkirk offers a fascinating insight into the political machinations and daring exploits of a bygone era.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by the high-stakes rivalry between the British and Russian empires for control over Central Asia during the 19th century. It vividly brings to life the espionage, exploration, and intrigue that defined this period, offering a gripping narrative filled with daring adventurers and strategic manoeuvres. Ideal for history enthusiasts who appreciate detailed storytelling of geopolitical rivalries.

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'Peter Hopkirk is truly the Laureate of the Great Game' Jan Morris

'Peter Hopkirk is truly the Laureate of the Great Game' Jan Morris

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

For nearly a century, the two most powerful nations on earth—Victorian Britain and Tsarist Russia—fought a secret war in the lonely passes and deserts of Central Asia. Those engaged in this shadowy struggle called it The Great Game, a phrase immortalised in Kipling's Kim.

When play first began, the two rival empires lay nearly 2,000 miles apart. By the end, some Russian outposts were within 20 miles of India.

This classic book tells the story of The Great Game through the exploits of the young officers, both British and Russian, who risked their lives playing it. Disguised as holy men or native horse-traders, they mapped secret passes, gathered intelligence, and sought the allegiance of powerful khans. Some never returned.

The violent repercussions of The Great Game are still convulsing Central Asia today.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Great Game by Peter Hopkirk is highly praised for its fascinating subject and engaging storytelling. Reviewers commend the book's readability and gripping narrative on the historical geopolitical rivalry in Central Asia. It is regarded as a classic, expertly handled by Hopkirk, providing insights into the region's complex dynamics.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780719564475

Publisher: John Murray Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 27 March 2006

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: John Murray Publishers Ltd

Illustration: 8pp black and white

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 38.0mm

Width: 135.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 418g

Pages: 592

About the Author

Peter Hopkirk has travelled widely in the regions where his six books are set - Central Asia, the Caucasus, China, India and Pakistan, Iran, and Eastern Turkey. He has worked as an ITN reporter, the New York correspondent of the old Daily Express, and - for twenty years - on The Times. No stranger to misadventure, he has twice been held in secret police cells and has also been hijacked by Arab terrorists. His works have been translated into fourteen languages.

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