Great Walls and Linear Barriers - Hardcover

Everyone has heard of the Great Wall of China and knows of Hadrian's Wall and the other barriers lining stretches of Rome's imperial frontiers. But Peter Spring's original new study demonstrates that far from being exceptional, the building of walls and other linear defences was commonplace among the peoples and states of the pre-modern era.

Key Highlights:

• Global Examples: The author finds examples of such walls and barriers virtually all across the globe and analyses their forms and strategic functions.
• Patterns and Themes: Patterns for their distribution are identified, with an important recurrent theme being the divide between settled agriculture and nomads.
• Beyond Defence: The study argues that these structures should not be viewed solely as defensive measures or evidence of insecurity (a 'maginot line mentality'). Instead, they were often about the aggressive assertion of control over regions or strategic routes.

This original and thought-provoking study brings new light and insight to a fascinating and neglected aspect of human political and military history.

The clear text is supported by numerous, specially drawn maps and photographs that enhance understanding and engagement.