THE ESSENTIAL WORLD HISTORY, 6e presents a balanced picture of world history that pays respect to the richness and diversity of the tapestry of the human experience. Based on the Sixth Edition of Duiker and Spielvogel's comprehensive WORLD HISTORY, this critically and popularly acclaimed book balances a thorough global approach with attention to the unique character and development of civilization in divergent parts of the world. The text covers individual civilizations such as China, India, and Europe, with due attention paid to the rise of the West, and provides points of comparison between and among these civilizations.