Asia Audiobooks | History

Asian Mythology: Japanese and Korean Mythology in a Nutshell (2 in 1)

"This book contains the following titles: Japanese Mythology - Japanese mythology is a rich tapestry woven from the threads of ancient stories, religious beliefs, and cultural practices that have evolved over centuries. At its core, this mythology provides a window into the Japanese worldview, where nature, spirituality, and humanity are deeply interconnected. It reveals how the Japanese people have understood their place in the universe, the origins of their land, and the divine forces that shape their existence. Korean Mythology - The unique characteristics of Korean mythology are closely tied to the geography and history of the region. The Korean Peninsula, surrounded by mountains, forests, and the sea, provided a fertile backdrop for the imagination of its people. Myths and legends often feature these elements as symbolic representations of life, death, and the balance of power between the human and the divine. From the founding myth of Dangun, the legendary progenitor of Korea, to the tales of celestial dragons and fox spirits, these stories capture the dynamic interplay between the mundane and the mystical. "

Matthew Fillard (Author), Marge Hellum (Narrator)

Audiobook

[Portuguese] - A Ásia é logo ali

"A Ásia é Logo Ali é um convite para embarcar em uma viagem cultural pelas principais festividades que iluminam e celebram a diversidade do continente asiático. Conheça de perto o vibrante Festival das Lanternas na China, o intenso Thaipusam na Malásia, o exótico Songkran na Tailândia e outras celebrações que refletem a rica herança cultural, os valores e a espiritualidade de cada país. Repleto de histórias, curiosidades e tradições, este livro é uma porta de entrada para se encantar e mergulhar nas cores, sabores e ritmos da fascinante cultura asiática."

Vários Autores (Author), Adriana Sousa, Geraldo Côrtes (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Great Transformation: China’s Road from Revolution to Reform

"THE FIRST THOROUGH ACCOUNT OF A FORMATIVE AND LITTLE UNDERSTOOD CHAPTER IN CHINESE HISTORY Odd Arne Westad and Chen Jian chronicle how an impoverished and terrorized China experienced radical political changes in the long 1970s and how ordinary people broke free from the beliefs that had shaped their lives during Mao’s Cultural Revolution. These changes, and the unprecedented and sustained economic growth that followed, transformed China and the world. In this rigorous account, Westad and Chen construct a panorama of catastrophe and progress in China. They chronicle China’s gradual opening to the world—the interplay of power in an era of aged and ailing leadership, the people’s rebellion against the earlier government system, and the roles of unlikely characters: overseas Chinese capitalists, American engineers, Japanese professors, and German designers. This is a story of revolutionary change that neither foreigners nor the Chinese themselves could have predicted. “Westad and Chen have written a masterful account of China’s modernization that illuminates the path it took to emerge as America’s only true peer competitor.”—Graham Allison, author of Destined for War: Can America and China Escape Thucydides’s Trap?"

Chen Jian, Odd Arne Westad (Author), Feodor Chin (Narrator)

Audiobook

Japan's Holocaust: History of Imperial Japan's Mass Murder and Rape During World War II

"Japan's Holocaust combines research conducted in over eighteen research facilities in five nations to explore Imperial Japan's atrocities from 1927 to 1945 during its military expansions and reckless campaigns throughout Asia and the Pacific. This book brings together the most recent scholarship and new primary research to ascertain that Japan claimed a minimum of thirty million lives, slaughtering more than Hitler's Nazi Germany. Japan's Holocaust shows that Emperor Hirohito not only knew about the atrocities his legions committed, but actually ordered them. He did nothing to stop them when they exceeded even the most depraved person's imagination, as illustrated during the Rape of Nanking as well as many other events. Japan's Holocaust will document in painful detail that the Rape of Nanking was not an isolated event during the Asian War but rather representative of how Japan behaved for all its campaigns throughout Asia and the Pacific from 1927 to 1945. Mass murder, rape, and economic exploitation was Japan's modus operandi during this period, and whereas Hitler's SS Death's Head outfits attempted to hide their atrocities, Hirohito's legions committed their atrocities out in the open. Moreover, whereas Germany has done much since World War II to atone for its crimes and to document them, Japan has been disgraceful with its reparations for its crimes."

Bryan Mark Rigg Phd (Author), Eric Jason Martin (Narrator)

Audiobook

Judgement at Tokyo: World War II on Trial and the Making of Modern Asia

"SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2024 CUNDILL HISTORY PRIZE LONGLISTED FOR THE 2024 BAILLIE GIFFORD PRIZE 'Magisterial' - Max Hastings, The Sunday Times 'Monumental'- Rana Mitter, Times Literary Supplement 'Every so often, a new work emerges of such immense scholarship and weight that it really does add a significant difference to our understanding of the Second World War and its consequences. Judgement at Tokyo is one such, a monumental work in both scale and detail, beautifully constructed and written, leaving the reader not only moved but disturbed as well.' - James Holland, The Sunday Telegraph 'A work of singular importance . . . balanced, original, human, accessible, and riveting' - Philippe Sands, author of East-West Street 'Breathtakingly ambitious and unlikely to be bettered as a portrait of the trials and their place in postwar global history' - History Today A landmark history of the postwar trials of Japan's leaders as war criminals, and their impact on the modern history of Asia and the world. In the weeks after Japan finally surrendered to the Allies to end World War II, the victorious powers turned to the question of how to move on from years of carnage and destruction. For the Allied powers, the trials were an opportunity both to render judgment on their vanquished foes and to create a legal framework to prosecute war crimes and prohibit the use of aggressive war. For the Japanese leaders on trial, it was their chance to argue that their war had been waged to liberate Asia from Western imperialism and that the court was no more than victors' justice. Gary J. Bass' Judgement at Tokyo is a magnificent, riveting story of wartime action, dramatic courtroom battles, and the epic formative years that set the stage for the postwar era in the Asia-Pacific. 'A comprehensive, landmark and riveting book' - The Washington Post, 'The 10 Best Books of 2023'"

Gary J. Bass (Author), Simon Vance (Narrator)

Audiobook

100 Amazing Facts about China: Secrets and Mysteries of the Middle Kingdom

Marc Dresgui (Author), Marc Dresgui (Narrator)

Audiobook

Mao: The Hidden Chronicles Revealed: Discover 'Mao: The Hidden Chronicles Revealed' audiobook for ca

"'Discover the Secret Depths of Mao's Hidden History' Looking to advance in your understanding and thoroughly comprehend the intricate details of Mao's hidden chronicles? In search of an all-encompassing guide that uncovers the enigmatic history of Mao? Your quest ends here! This audiobook serves as your ultimate companion in exploring, understanding, and engaging with the profound aspects of Mao's secretive past. With this, you are set for an enlightening experience. Updated insights and revelations about Mao's concealed history are explored. Key features of this informative guide: - In-depth exploration of Mao's historical secrets - Detailed narratives about the hidden aspects of Mao's life - Effective strategies for delving into complex historical accounts Our guide stands out due to its thorough coverage, essential for a comprehensive understanding of Mao's elusive history. Concepts are not just touched upon; they are examined with great detail. Please note that this guide is not affiliated with any official historical entity and is solely an independent resource for your intellectual enrichment. Crafted with a clear structure and straightforward language, our guide to Mao's Hidden Chronicles ensures a seamless journey through the topics. Say goodbye to dense historical jargon and embrace clear, precise, and insightful content. So, why wait? Click the BUY NOW button, secure your audiobook, and start your journey into discovering the secret depths of Mao's hidden history!"

Cameron Hestings (Author), Nick Porter (Narrator)

Audiobook

Chinese Civil War: Nationalists vs. Communists and the Birth of Modern China (1927–1950)

"The Chinese Civil War was a decades-long battle between the Nationalists and Communists that not only reshaped China but also sent shockwaves across the world. In this compelling audiobook, you'll be guided through the war’s pivotal early battles, the devastating impact of the Japanese invasion during World War II, and the final confrontation that forced Chiang Kai-shek to retreat to Taiwan. Through concise yet thorough narration, you'll explore the ideologies, strategies, and global consequences of this monumental conflict, which became a defining moment in Cold War history. In this audiobook, you will discover: - The political and social upheaval that led to the fall of the Qing Dynasty. - The rise of the Kuomintang and the Chinese Communist Party. - The Long March and Mao Zedong’s rise to power. - The impact of foreign intervention from Japan, the Soviet Union, and the United States. - The decisive battles and the founding of the People’s Republic of China. - The enduring impact on global politics, particularly the tension between China and Taiwan. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious about the complex forces that shaped modern China, this audiobook provides an insightful journey through a conflict that continues to shape global relations today."

Daniel Wrinn (Author), Daniel Wrinn (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Yakuza: History and Background of Japan’s Most Powerful Criminal Gang

"The Yakuza were members of large-scale organized criminal syndicates based in Japan, known for their deeply entrenched criminal activities and distinctive cultural identity. Officially referred to as 'violent organizations' at the request of Japanese authorities, the Yakuza bear similarities to gangsters or mafia members in the West. Their reputation is tied to strict codes of conduct, an internally hierarchical and feudal structure, and an array of unique ritual practices. Among the most notorious of these customs is *yubitsume*, the ritualistic amputation of part of the left little finger, used as a form of atonement for mistakes or failure within the organization. This physical mark is often a telling sign of membership. Yakuza members were typically described as males in sharp suits, their bodies adorned with elaborate, full-body tattoos, and their hair slicked back in a signature style. They are regarded as one of the most powerful and financially successful criminal groups in the world. At the height of their influence, the Yakuza wielded considerable power both in Japan and internationally. In the early 1960s, police estimates placed the total Yakuza membership at over 200,000 members, a number that has significantly declined in recent decades. The reduction in their ranks can be attributed to a combination of economic shifts and legal reforms that made it increasingly difficult for the Yakuza to operate as they once had. Despite this, the Yakuza remain involved in a wide variety of criminal enterprises today, ranging from drug trafficking to white-collar crime, and continue to instill fear among many Japanese citizens, who view them as a persistent threat to public safety."

Kelly Mass (Author), Kelly Fraser (Narrator)

Audiobook

Chinese Mythology: Legends, Deities, and the Cultural Tapestry of Ancient China

"Chinese mythology is a rich and intricate tapestry of stories, legends, and beliefs that have shaped the cultural and spiritual landscape of China for millennia. These myths not only entertain but also convey moral lessons, cultural values, and historical narratives that resonate deeply with the Chinese people. In a society where tradition and heritage are highly esteemed, mythology plays a vital role in connecting individuals to their past, providing a framework for understanding their identity and place in the world. The role of mythology in Chinese culture extends beyond mere storytelling; it serves as a lens through which people view the cosmos, nature, and humanity's place within it. Myths explain natural phenomena, the creation of the world, and the origins of important cultural practices, creating a sense of continuity and belonging across generations. Characters such as the Dragon, a symbol of power and auspiciousness, and the Jade Emperor, a central deity in Taoist cosmology, exemplify the deep-rooted connections between mythology and cultural identity. These figures embody qualities that the Chinese people aspire to, reinforcing ideals of strength, wisdom, and harmony."

Christiano Farrezi (Author), Sophia Fenner (Narrator)

Audiobook

Japanese Folktales and Legends: An Enthralling Collection of Stories, Mythical Creatures, Heroes, a

"Uncover the Heart of Japan Through Its Legendary StoriesStep into the world of Japanese folklore, where a samurai’s sword is more than just a weapon—it’s a symbol of honor, courage, and the samurai way of life. This audiobook takes you on a journey through the stories that have shaped Japanese culture for centuries. Discover the enduring power of Japanese mythology and its influence on culture and values. From the celestial kami to the brave samurai, from cunning tricksters to fearsome yokai, each tale offers a unique glimpse into the Japanese spirit. Here’s a taste of what you’ll uncover: - The creation myths of Izanagi and Izanami, the divine couple who shaped the Japanese islands. - The story of Amaterasu, the sun goddess who hid in a cave and plunged the world into darkness. - The fascinating rituals of Shinto, where every rock, tree, and stream is alive with the presence of kami. - The epic adventures of Miyamoto Musashi, Japan’s most famous swordsman, and his legendary duels. - The tale of the 47 Ronin, whose loyalty and bravery have become the ultimate symbol of samurai honor. - The mysterious and mischievous kitsune, fox spirits known for their shape-shifting abilities. - Beautiful yet tragic love stories like “The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter” and “The Crane Wife.” - The harrowing legend of Okiku, the story that inspired a famous horror movie. - And much, much more! Each story reveals a piece of the Japanese spirit and shows how these old tales still matter today. Scroll up and click the “add to cart” to start your journey into the world of Japanese folktales and legends!"

Billy Wellman (Author), Colin Fluxman (Narrator)

Audiobook

Mughal Empire: The Early Modern Islamic Empire in South Asia

"The Mughal Empire, also referred to as the Mogul or Moghul Empire, was one of the most powerful and influential early modern Islamic empires in South Asia. Established in the 16th century, it controlled vast regions for over two centuries, encompassing territories from the peripheries of the Indus basin in the west, extending to northern Afghanistan, Kashmir in the north, present-day Bangladesh in the east, and stretching as far south as the Deccan Plateau's uplands. The origins of the Mughal Empire trace back to 1526 when Babur, a warrior chieftain from what is now Uzbekistan, founded the empire. Babur's military strategy combined traditional cavalry tactics with the latest artillery techniques, using matchlock guns and cast cannons acquired with Ottoman assistance. These advancements, alongside his strategic acumen, led him to a decisive victory against the Sultan of Delhi, Ibrahim Lodhi, at the First Battle of Panipat. This battle marked a turning point, allowing Babur to establish his dominance over northern India and subdue rival Rajput and Afghan forces. While Babur laid the foundation of the empire, the true structure of the Mughal state is often attributed to his grandson, Akbar the Great. By the late 16th century, under Akbar's rule, the empire expanded its reach and established a well-organized imperial administration that laid the groundwork for political stability, cultural integration, and economic prosperity. Akbar's reign is particularly noted for promoting a policy of religious tolerance, encouraging a synthesis of Hindu and Muslim cultures, and setting up an efficient centralized bureaucracy."

Kelly Mass (Author), Kelly Fraser (Narrator)

Audiobook

Asia Audiobooks in History