Product Description

Gibraltar has, for its size, been inordinately important as a strategic point since prehistoric times and in this book the author traces the history of the Rock through to the present contentious issue that it represents for Spain and the UK.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #436555 in Books
• Published on: 2000-07-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 224 pages

Customer Reviews

A scholarly work.
Like so many people who have visited Gibraltar over the years, I have had a love affair with this country ever since I first clapped eyes on what is easily the most famous rock in the world. Whilst my own interest in Gibraltar stems from the superb wreck-diving to be found just offshore, in researching the history of those shipwrecks I found myself drawn into the wider elements of this truly historic piece of real estate time and again. It was, therefore, with a little knowledge of Gibraltar's history that I sat down to read this book and very soon I found myself saying things like; "I've been there" and "I never knew that."

"Gibraltar - A History" is a large book measuring 11" x 8½" and is richly illustrated throughout with images of people, places and artefacts which support a well-told story of the history of Gibraltar. Commencing almost at the beginning of time, the author takes us to AD711 in the very first chapter. Having thus set the background scenery so expertly, we then travel through time in Gibraltar as we are skilfully brought forward - chapter by chapter and conflict by conflict, to the present day.

And, of course, those conflicts are not yet over. One of the very first lessons I learned over 30 years ago was that Gibraltarians are NOT Spanish people - and never were. Perhaps those who think otherwise should read this book. They may be surprised - I don't know. They will certainly be educated.

"Gibraltar - A History" is a book which will stand the test of time because it includes everything you ever wanted to know about this fabulous little country. Maurice Harvey and his publishers have done an excellent job of work here and I congratulate them on a task well done.