Chambers Biographical Dictionary [antikvár]

Preface Now in its seventh edition, the Chambers Biographical Dictionary continues to be the essential reference work for the reader with an interest in prominent people. Covering those who have achieved fame and recognition in all fields of human endeavour, it provides an unrivalled single-volume collection of biographical information. As we move further into the new century, the cult of personality grows ever stronger and the nature of fame continues to evolve. In recognition of the ever-increasing pace of change within the human world. Chambers Biographical Dictionary has been extensively updated for this edition with the inclusion of over 500 new entries. In retaining the single-volume format of this work, it is, of course, inevitable that some entries must be removed to make way for the new. Despite this, the book now contains more entries than ever before, whilst retaining the breadth of information and reliability of content that users have come to expect from such an established authority. Deletions have been carefully considered and reflect, as far as possible, the change in the importance or influence of the individuals concerned as time moves on. Given the wide range of contributors to a work of this scale and the enormous variety of entries, it is impossible to prevent a certain element of subjectivity entering into the selection process. However, the criteria for inclusion that have been the basis of the dictionary since its first edition in 1897—achievement and recognition—have been preserved. The new edition aims, as before, to both inform and entertain by providing factual detail in a readable form. As far as is possible within a single volume, it attempts to provide a comprehensive list of all those who may reasonably be the subject of enquiry. From Cleopatra to Madonna, Aristotle to Zidane, the ways in which people come to prominence are many and varied. Whether you are driven by academic enquiry or casual interest, this book will provide you with a concise yet informative description of the achievements of those people who have shaped, and continue to shape, the world in which we live.