Normans: The History of a Dynasty

The first great city to which the Crusaders came in 1089 was not Jerusalem but Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire. Almost as much as Jerusalem itself, Constantinople was the key to the foundation, survival and ultimate eclipse of the crusading kingdom. It was the threat to Constantinople which led Urban II to preach the First Crusade, yet the Byzantines were extremely suspicious of this and subsequent crusades, often failing to provide looked for military and diplomatic support.

Jerusalem in the Time of the Crusades

Serving as both a scholarly account of Jerusalem's archaeology and a useful guide for the interested reader, this work illuminates the turbulent past of a city which is both medieval in appearance and a modern city at the center of international and religious interest. This expansive new work examines the history of the city and its unique society as well as presents archaeological evidence for Crusader Jerusalem.

Jerusalem and the Holy Land (Eyewitness Travel Guides)

This guide helps you to get the most from your visit to Jerusalem and the Holy Land, by providing detailed practical information. Introducing Jerusalem and the Holy Land maps the region and sets it in its historical and cultural context. The Jerusalem section and the four regional chapters describe important sights, using maps, photographs and illustrations. Features cover topics from food to wildlife. Recommended hotels and restaurants are listed in Travellers’ Needs, while the Survival Guide has tips on travel and other practical matters.

Eichmann in Jerusalem: A Report on the Banality of Evil by Hannah Arendt demonstrates the true horror of the Third Reich. This horror is not the inherent evil of Hitler or Himmler or the sadistic camp guards. The holocaust presented these already morally bankrupt men with the opportunity to commit the evil which their consciences allowed. Of greater horror are the individuals, such as Eichmann, who were not evil per se, but who were willing to put conscience aside in order to advance within an evil system

Arendt does an amazing job of delving into the mind of Eichmann as well as the reasons why the Final Solution was successful in some countries and not others. This is not a book for one who desires light reading. However, if one is seeking to understand the Final Solution, then this book is a must.