This successful western history version of the popular Discovering series provides a broad range of both visual and written sources within a unique pedagogical framework that guides students through the process of historical inquiry and explanation. Its unique structure promotes critical thinking, sharpens analytical skills, and builds student interest in the subject matter. The text emphasizes historical study as interpretation rather than memorization of data, with actual documents and artifacts from which students develop answers to historical questions. A new chapter in Volume 1 focuses on the development of monotheism in the ancient world, including new coverage of the Sumerians, Egyptians, Hebrews, and others. Other new chapters examine the Crusades and the impact of the Reformation through confessionalization and social discipline. Volume II includes expanded visual evidence in the chapter on World War I. The volume also includes new chapters on the Cold War, women's political activism, and globalization and the European community.