Author
William Smith
1813-1893
William Smith (1813-1893) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by William Smith
A Smaller Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities
"A Smaller Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities" by William Smith is a scholarly reference work written in the late 19th century. This dictionary serves as a compact guide to various aspects of ancient Greek and Roman culture, including laws, institutions, customs, art, and more. It likely aims to support advanced scholars and students in their understanding of classical antiquities, offering concise definitions and explanations of terms relevant to the ancient world. The opening of this reference work provides a transcription note, explaining the formatting of text and footnotes, and emphasizes the book's organization. After the introductory material, it begins with entries that detail specific terms related to antiquity, such as "Acerra" (an incense container), "Ablution" (the act of washing), and "Aged" (age-related social roles), among many others. Each entry is presented with definitions and often elaborates on its historical significance or usage in the classical context, offering readers a glimpse into the extensive knowledge contained within the dictionary.
The History of the Post Office in British North America
"The History of the Post Office in British North America" by William Smith is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work chronicles the establishment and evolution of the postal service in Canada from 1639 until 1870, providing insights into how postal communication developed in the context of both colonial governance and inter-colonial relations. The book addresses not only the origins of postal services in Canada but also its ties to the broader colonial postal system that informed its growth. The opening of this account introduces readers to significant historical figures like Benjamin Franklin, who played a crucial role in the early postal services connecting Canada to other colonies. Smith discusses how Franklin established a post office in Quebec and initiated a network of communication that linked Canadian cities with New York as part of the larger colonial postal system. Furthermore, it explores earlier attempts to institute postal services in North America, outlining the challenges and adaptations required to enhance communication in a rapidly developing society, setting the stage for a more comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved in the establishment of a functional postal network throughout British North America.
A Smaller History of Greece: from the Earliest Times to the Roman Conquest
"A Smaller History of Greece: from the Earliest Times to the Roman Conquest" by William Smith is a historical account likely written in the late 19th century. The book explores the geographical, social, and political evolution of ancient Greece, detailing significant periods and events leading up to the Roman conquest. It specifically focuses on the development of city-states, the heroic age, and the Persian Wars, providing a comprehensive overview of Greek history. The opening of the text begins with a detailed description of the geography of Greece, illustrating its mountainous terrain and small, independent city-states that fostered a spirit of independence among the Greeks. Smith explains how the surrounding seas encouraged maritime trade and exploration. The narrative transitions to the origins of the Greeks, highlighting the Pelasgians as the earliest inhabitants and leading into discussions of the Hellenes and their legendary heroes, like Hercules and Theseus. These introductory chapters set the stage for a broader exploration of Greece's social structure and political evolution, including the roles of key city-states, the institution of democracy, and the context of warfare, particularly the Persian conflicts that shaped the course of Greek history.
A Smaller History of Rome from the Earliest Times to the Establishment of the Empire
"A Smaller History of Rome" by William Smith and Eugene Lawrence is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The text aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Roman history, from its earliest times to the establishment of the empire, including significant political events and cultural developments. It serves as an educational resource, particularly designed for students, and is structured as a manual for those seeking an accessible introduction to Roman history. The opening of the work delves into the geography of Italy and its early inhabitants. It meticulously describes the various regions, such as Etruria, Umbrium, and Latium, outlining their boundaries, natural features, and the peoples who occupied them. This foundational context sets the stage for understanding the emergence of Rome and its interactions with other cultures, such as the Greeks and Gauls, providing essential background for the subsequent chapters that will trace the evolution of Roman society and governance.