One of the most revered, legendary, and nonetheless complicated figures from the history of Rome, Julius Caesar was a master politician and military genius. In this book, Caesar's life and impressive accomplishments are related within the historical context of the Roman Republic, already an incredible power by his time, transforming into an empire. It explores Caesar's role in this transformation, and his triumphs in war, illuminating the path of a leader both exalted and fear, and ultimat...

Among the most fearsome tools of the modern era of war—and certainly one of the most controversial—biological weapons exist within the arsenals of many nations. This book discusses the history of biological warfare from ancient times through the modern era and examines the various types of weaponized organisms that can and have been be used by nations and may be used by nonstate actors in potential acts of bioterrorism. It also documents the preventative measures that governments and the i...

Many entries in the historical record and examples from popular culture show nobles, knights, kings, and peasants alike celebrating with food and drink. In this book, medieval agriculture, food preparation, and eating are explored in equal measure. With vivid examples from historical manuscripts, paintings, frescoes, and more, this book opens a window for readers into the culinary worlds and celebratory rituals of the people of the Middle Ages. From typical foods of the common people, to t...

The interdisciplinary field of robotics offers its practitioners many practical applications and makes it an exciting, dynamic, and cutting-edge pursuit, especially for young people embarking on their careers. This updated volume discusses the latest advances readers will need to be aware of in preparation for the professional positions of computer scientist, robotics engineer, and robotics technician. Readers will get detailed information and tips on what courses to take now and the ongoi...

Robots are destined to be a major part of human society and will transform education, business, and everyday life. Learning how to build robots is a popular pastime that brings to bear many different skills. This book introduces readers to robotics clubs and instructs them on how to join one of the hundreds available across the United States and the globe. It also serves as a guidebook on how someone can even start and lead or manage one of their own clubs and serves as a technologically c...

Throughout Europe, medieval forces were either engaged in conflict or preparing for it through training. Arising from the need to keep the skills of warriors sharp and battle-ready, medieval jousting for knights on horseback became a widespread pastime. This book details how the culture of medieval tournaments arose around jousting and other games of combat, including both for the mounted cavalry (knights) and foot soldiers (in events such as melees) and became a central aspect of medieval...

The transformation of Rome from a republic into an empire was one of the most pivotal changes of its era, affecting the course of history for the Mediterranean world. Born at the time of civil and political unrest that embroiled Rome leading up to and surrounding the death of Julius Caesar, the man born Gaius Octavius, or Octavian, was Caesar's great-nephew. This book relates how, through political maneuvering and military prowess, he would become Augustus, the first emperor of the new Rom...

All around us, the natural world goes through cycles of growth and decay. Fungi, including molds, are crucial to these life cycles and can be both destructive and beneficial to humans. From the cultivation of mushrooms, through the molds employed to make cheeses and other food products, to water-damaged human environments where mold must be contained, this book explores these organisms that exist largely unseen all around us. This big-picture approach demonstrates how fungi differ from oth...

As modern tourist destinations, museums, and sites of archaeological and architectural study, medieval castles continue to captivate students of history and laymen alike. Medieval cathedrals, many refurbished and still in use, also inspire awe, inspiration, and historical interest. In this book, readers will be enthralled by the vivid imagery of the castles and cathedrals that remain all over Europe and the rich historical narratives their stories convey. This work will be a surefire hit w...

The rise of Constantine marked a pivotal and transformative time for the Roman Empire. Besides imposing many important changes to Rome's government and currency and a reorganization of civil and military spheres, Constantine is also well known for being the first Roman emperor to embrace and eventually convert to Christianity, a religion once oppressed and reviled by pagan Rome, and for shifting imperial power to the eastern part of the empire. In this book, the life of Constantine the Gre...

The simplest living organisms on Earth, viruses are endlessly studied and yet remain a great mystery. They are the cause of many human and animal illnesses, from the numerous and common cold and flu viruses that plague us for a few days or weeks, to more insidious but treatable viral infections, such as HPV, to the most feared killer viruses, such as HIV and Ebola. In this book, readers explore the mechanics of how infections occur and what kinds of diseases arise from what types of viruse...

From the dawn of history, individuals and civilizations have battled disease. The struggle shifted once epidemiologists, medical professionals, and other specialists identified the microscopic organisms often to blame for much of humanity’s illnesses over time. This book examines both the history of battling disease and the ever-shifting frontlines of the modern struggle against germs, as well as possible future developments. From cutting-edge medical treatments to common-sense measures to...