The Dictionary of World Biography

The Dictionary of World Biography compiles biographical entries of over 8,000 notable figures throughout world history. The entries span from ancient civilizations to modern times, covering politicians, artists, scientists, religious leaders, and other influential individuals. Author Barry Jones presents concise yet comprehensive profiles that include key life events, achievements, and historical context for each subject. The biographical entries incorporate the latest academic research while remaining accessible to general readers. The book serves as both a reference work and a broader examination of how individual lives have shaped human civilization. Its scope extends beyond Western figures to include significant persons from Asia, Africa, the Americas, and other regions traditionally underrepresented in biographical collections. Through its extensive collection of life stories, the work illuminates the interconnected nature of human achievement and the recurring patterns in how individuals impact history. The biographical format provides a personal lens through which to view major historical developments and cultural transformations.

Limited reader reviews exist online for this biographical reference work. Most readers note its strong focus on Australian and international political figures, reflecting Jones' background as an Australian politician and public intellectual. Readers appreciated: - Detailed entries on lesser-known Australian historical figures - Clear writing style without academic jargon - Regular updates with new editions - Personal insights from Jones' direct interactions with many subjects Common criticisms: - Bias toward Australian content - Some entries seen as too brief - Limited coverage of figures from Asia and Africa - High price point for physical editions Available Ratings: Goodreads: No rating (too few reviews) Amazon AU: No rating (too few reviews) WorldCat.org: No rating available Most discussion appears in academic reviews rather than consumer feedback. The Dictionary's specialized nature and academic pricing means fewer public reader reviews exist compared to mainstream biographical works.

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Current Biography Yearbook by H.W. Wilson Company Each volume delivers comprehensive biographical profiles of people making news and history during that year.

Chambers Biographical Dictionary by Melanie Parry This single-volume reference work covers 18,000 biographies from all periods of history and all fields of endeavor.

Webster's New World Dictionary of Notable Names by John Drury This reference book focuses on historical figures who shaped major movements, discoveries, and events across civilizations.

🔷 Barry Jones served as Australia's longest-serving Science Minister (1983-1990) and was the only person to have been a member of all three UNESCO bodies: Executive Board, World Heritage Committee, and National Commission. 🔷 The Dictionary of World Biography has been continuously updated and revised since its first publication in 1994, with the most recent edition (2021) containing over 8,000 entries. 🔷 While most biographical dictionaries focus solely on basic facts and achievements, Jones includes personal observations and anecdotes, making it more engaging than traditional reference works. 🔷 Despite its comprehensive scope spanning multiple centuries and cultures, Jones personally wrote every entry rather than employing a team of contributors, taking over 40 years to complete the initial compilation. 🔷 The book became required reading in many Australian schools and universities, and was praised for making complex historical figures accessible through its conversational writing style and cross-cultural connections.