The Ends Of The Earth: A Journey At The Dawn Of The 21st Century

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The bestselling author of Balkan Ghosts takes readers on a journey through troubled regions where age-old cultural rivalries threaten to reshape the world of tomorrow. From West Africa to the fundamentalist enclaves of Egypt and Iran to the culturally explosive lands of Central Asia, the people who will remake our world tomorrow are profiled.

Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 94 votes)
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94 reviews All reviews
July 14,2025
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I truly loved it. It was an amazing piece of work that had a profound impact on me.

The content was so engaging and thought-provoking that I couldn't put it down.

It made me see things from a different perspective and opened my eyes to new ideas.

I believe that everyone should read it.

It has the potential to touch the hearts and minds of people from all walks of life.

Whether you are looking for entertainment, inspiration, or knowledge, this article has something for everyone.

It is a must-read that will leave you with a lasting impression and a desire to share it with others.

So, don't hesitate. Pick up this article and start reading today. You won't be disappointed.

July 14,2025
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This is definitely a book that I deeply wish I could have read 10 years ago when I was in college. The content that Kaplan writes about the state of the countries in the 90's is still highly relevant today when compared to other countries. As I was reading this book, I felt extremely lucky to have the advantage of hindsight. It allowed me to clearly see how some countries have made remarkable progress over the years, while unfortunately, others have continued to face numerous struggles and challenges. This is truly a great geopolitics book. It not only provides valuable insights into the political, economic, and social situations of different countries but also激发s my longing to embark on a similar trip one day. I hope to亲眼目睹the real situations and changes of these countries and gain a more profound understanding of the world we live in.

July 14,2025
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Kaplan embarks us on an epic odyssey that spans across the globe. He not only vividly describes the wonders of the exotic lands he traverses but also delves deep into the cultural, political, economic, and social aspects of each place he sets foot on. Even though it was penned in the early 1990s, "The Ends of Earth" remains highly relevant in today's international landscape. The conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia mirrors the one in 1994 as he predicted. He foresaw the Arab Springs in Egypt, having witnessed the rising social tensions across the Middle East. Moreover, he accurately anticipates today's China's increasing oppression against the Uyghur Community in Xinjiang. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who desires to travel and explore the world, especially now that it has become less straightforward to embark on a journey.

July 14,2025
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Kaplan's overarching theme is that culture is, in many ways, the most determinate factor affecting the world's societies.

Each country he visits in the book is almost like a case study that supports this theory.

The book was written in 1996, and as a result, the reader cannot help but notice that many of Kaplan's predictions have proven true.

There is a great section on Iran and central Asia broadly. However, the sections on Africa - the first few chapters - are not as good.

Annoyingly, for all his insights, his prose is dry and wordy.

Still, overall, the book is pretty good. It offers valuable perspectives on the role of culture in shaping different societies around the world.

Despite its flaws, it remains an important work that can help readers better understand the complex interactions between culture and society.
July 14,2025
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My kind of travel book is a unique blend that offers a captivating reading experience.

It skillfully alternates between narrative, history, politics, and speculative digressions about the future of the places visited.

The narrative part takes the reader on a journey, vividly describing the landscapes, cultures, and people encountered along the way.

Interspersed with this are historical accounts that provide context and depth, allowing the reader to understand the roots and evolution of the destinations.

The political aspects offer insights into the current power structures and social issues, adding a layer of complexity to the story.

Finally, the speculative digressions about the future spark the reader's imagination, making them wonder about the possibilities and challenges that lie ahead for these places.

Overall, this type of travel book is not just about documenting a journey but also about exploring the multifaceted nature of the places visited and engaging the reader in a thought-provoking conversation.
July 14,2025
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He is an extremely brilliant writer.

His works are often filled with profound insights and vivid descriptions. However, when it comes to his travels through Russia and Asia, I was not able to establish a strong connection.

Perhaps it was due to the cultural differences or my lack of familiarity with those regions. As a result, this particular book seemed to become a little dry for me.

Nonetheless, I still managed to find certain aspects of it enjoyable.

The writer's unique perspective and the way he presented the landscapes and people were quite interesting.

Although it didn't completely captivate me, I can appreciate the effort and talent that went into writing this book.

It serves as a reminder that even the most outstanding works may not resonate with every reader.

Overall, it was an experience that allowed me to explore different cultures and gain a new understanding of the world through the eyes of a talented writer.

July 14,2025
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Fascinating travels offer a wonderful opportunity to explore different cultures and landscapes.

Cambodia and Vietnam are two countries that are rich in history, natural beauty, and unique experiences.

In Cambodia, one can visit the magnificent Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest religious monuments in the world. The ancient temples and ruins are a testament to the once-great Khmer Empire and offer a glimpse into its辉煌 past.

Vietnam, on the other hand, is known for its beautiful beaches, bustling cities, and delicious cuisine. From the vibrant streets of Hanoi to the tropical paradise of Nha Trang, there is something for everyone in Vietnam.

Whether you are interested in history, culture, or simply relaxing on the beach, a trip to Cambodia and Vietnam is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a fascinating journey through these two amazing countries.
July 14,2025
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I started reading this one, but then I stopped. However, it has been good thus far.

I'm not sure why I stopped. Maybe I got distracted by something else or maybe I just needed a break. But I do know that what I have read so far has been interesting and engaging.

The writing style is clear and easy to understand, and the story or information presented has captured my attention. I think I will pick it up again soon and continue reading to see where it takes me.

Overall, I would say that this is a promising piece of work, and I'm looking forward to seeing how it develops.
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