About the book: 2007 / In his study, the famous Italian scientist Carlo Cipolla introduces the history of European expansion of the 15th-18th centuries. Based on rich factual material, the role of artillery and sailing fleet is shown as the most important factors that allowed the Europeans to successfully resist the threat from the East and establish their supremacy at sea. Written in a lively, accessible language, the book is of interest to the widest range of readers.