A boxset incorporating two of the Times finest atlases and history books. The ideal geography and history reference. Carrying the authority of The Times and its unrivalled reputation for accurate and current information, these two books are an authoritative guide to the world -- past and present. The 5th edition of The Times Compact History of the World is a fully-updated, authoritative, detailed and visually-exciting guide to the world - past and present. From the emergence of the first modern humans to recent acts of terrorism, technological breakthroughs, and global issues of the environment and economy, The Times Compact History of the World covers the whole spectrum of human development through an integrated approach of concise yet accessible text, lavish and informative mapping, stunning illustrations, and evocative photographs. The Times Atlas of the World Desktop edition is a complete world reference atlas in a convenient and easy-to use format, retaining the authority, style and detail of the larger Times atlases.The introductory section covers major world geographical themes -- from earthquakes and volcanoes to population growth, communications and climate change -- giving a global snapshot of our contemporary world.Also contains thousands of world facts and figures including a wide range of extra country statistics, time zone map, climate graphs, ranking tables and a distance chart.