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Salt
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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?
Wars have been fought over salt and, while salt taxes secured empires across Europe and Asia, they have also inspired revolution - Gandhi's salt march in 1930 began the overthrow of British rule in India.
The magnificent story of how a common rock has shaped civilization.
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Description
Discover the extraordinary journey of an essential mineral in Salt by Mark Kurlansky. This compelling book narrates the fascinating history of salt and its profound impact on human civilisation. Through an intricate weaving of various tales, the book explores how this humble yet vital substance has been more than just a seasoning; it has been a cornerstone of empires, a catalyst for wars, and a symbol of both wealth and oppression.
Homer called it a divine substance. Plato described it as especially dear to the gods. As Mark Kurlansky so brilliantly relates here, salt has shaped civilisation from the beginning, and its story is a glittering, often surprising part of the history of mankind. Wars have been fought over salt; while salt taxes secured empires across Europe and Asia, they also inspired revolutionβGandhi's salt march in 1930 began the overthrow of British rule in India.
In his narrative, Kurlansky guides readers through key historical moments: from the rural Sichuan province where the last home-made soya sauce is crafted, to the ancient Cheshire brine springs that supplied salt across the globe. Each chapter provides a new revelation, drawing on political, commercial, scientific, religious, and culinary contexts to present a holistic and engaging story.
Kurlansky's extensive research and captivating storytelling transform what could be a mundane topic into a kaleidoscope of world history. Readers are treated to an exploration of how salt's influence permeated different cultures and periods, offering insights into trade routes, culinary practices, and even military strategies. This meticulously crafted book is more than a history lesson; itβs a profound exploration of human endeavour and resilience, all through the lens of a single, ubiquitous mineral.
Salt is an essential read for anyone interested in history, culture, and the intricate web of factors that have shaped our world. Mark Kurlansky masterfully brings to life the saga of salt, making it a rich and memorable tale that underscores its significance through the ages.
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?
Salt by Mark Kurlansky is praised for its fascinating and invigorating storytelling, with a lyrical and flowing style that intertwines vivid imagery with compelling facts. Critics find it crisply and elegantly written, piquing readers' appetites and sharpening their senses. The book provides a rich historical account of salt-influenced creations, offering an entertaining and anecdotal narrative throughout.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780099281993
Publisher: Vintage Publishing
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 06 March 2003
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Vintage
Audience: Tertiary education
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 29.0mm
Width: 129.0mm
Height: 198.0mm
Weight: 342g
Pages: 496
About the Author
Mark Kurlansky is the author of 23 books of fiction, nonfiction, children's writing. His best-selling Cod- A Biography of the Fish that Changed the World won the 1999 James Beard Award for Food Writing and the 1999 Glenfiddich Award. His other works include- Salt, The Basque History of the World and the short story collection The White Man in the Tree. He lives in New York City with his wife and daughter.
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