Madmen of History sheds light on many of mankind’s darkest figures, identifying their common characteristics and helping readers see infamous figures of today more clearly.

Those who fail to learn the lessons of history are doomed to repeat it, goes an old adage. Equally true, yet cynical, is Voltaire’s claim that "history is nought but a list of crime and calamity." More useful, though, is Jules Michelet’s contention that "history is useless if one does not look at it in the light of current misfortunes."

With a new preface that includes contemporary figures Osama bin Laden, Timothy McVeigh, Slobodan Milosovic, Saddam Hussein and others, the 2005 edition can help us better understand madmen of the past, and take preventative action against those who threaten our future.

Donald D. Hook is Professor emeritus of Modern Languages and Literature at Trinity College, Hartford, Connecticut. Educated at five U.S. universities, he is a widely published author of books and articles on literary subjects, sociology, cultural history, gun control, quotations, and church matters.

Dr. Hook retired from university teaching in 1994 and moved to Delaware, where he continues to write on tough and controversial subjects.

Madmen of History ISBN-10: 1-58832-136-3 ISBN-13: 978-1-58832-136-7 Retail: $15.99 U.S. Edition: Fourth Specs: 6 x 9 Trade Paperback Length: 252 Released: October 2005 Subject(s): History