S. A. Cook

In the 1960's there was another edition of the larger work yet to come, if not a third by now, (2023). However this was a readable and manageable account for the curious general reader.

By now, this collection has been replaced at least twice by later generations of classic historians, but still could provide useful material for thew student. The maps are relatively lavish, and the text is clearly written by the experts then available. Spoiler, the Persian Empire invades the Greek City states, but the Western ones maintain their independence. There is also a chapter on Syracuse and Carthage in Sicily.

This volume was first published in 1926, and our understanding of the Ancient World has expanded a good deal since then. I still think, though that some understanding can be gained by reading it. I obviously read an earlier reprint.

The Persians being held at bay, the City states expand their sphere and become, with advent of the Macedonians, easily the dominant power in the Mediterranean. This was the standard work in English until the 1970's.