What history can teach us (Lessons of History by Will & Ariel Durant)

Written by Will and Ariel Durant after completing the 10th volume of their 'The Story of Civilization' series, 'The Lessons of History' provides an overview of the themes and lessons observed from human history. The book examines history from various perspectives including geography, biology, race, character, morals, religion, economics, socialism, government, war, growth and decay, and progress. The Durants discuss the recurring themes of history, such as the balance between liberty and equality, the role of economics, and the inevitability of human nature's influence on historical events. They argue that while there are no predictable regularities in the course of civilizations, there are common factors that contribute to their growth and decline.

This series, written over a period of 40 years, is a detailed and engaging narrative of human history from prehistoric times to the late 18th century. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of historical events, cultural developments, and the lives of influential individuals. The Durants' approach is characterized by their attention to art, literature, music, and other aspects of culture, making history more accessible and engaging for a broad audience. Despite some criticisms for being Eurocentric and lacking in primary research, the series is praised for its thorough and personable style, making complex historical topics interesting and transparent.