The very idea of exploring the history of the world, from 8,000 years before the Common Era to the present, seems daunting to say the least - and yet high school students and others are expected to do just that, year in, year out. Which societies are the most important? Which periods of time saw the most change? How have cultures differed and remained the same across this vast time and space? And, even more important - will it be on the test? The Complete Idiot's Guide to World History gives readers the whole world, and then some! Key ideas and lesser-known facts that make for fascinating essay talking points, salient quotes, and crucial terms defined - the most important aspects of the dynamics of the history of the world in 400-pages that prepare readers not only to excel in exams but to become 21st century citizens of the world!