1453

The Holy War for Constantinople and the Clash of Islam and the West

By: Roger Crowley

Narrated by: Simon Prebble

Now in audiobook format, a gripping exploration of the fall of Constantinople and its connection to the world we live in today

The fall of Constantinople in 1453 signaled a shift in history, and the end of the Byzantium Empire. Roger Crowley's readable and comprehensive account of the battle between Mehmed II, sultan of the Ottoman Empire, and Constantine XI, the 57th emperor of Byzantium, illuminates the period in history that was a precursor to the current jihad between the West and the Middle East.

A must read for history students

Its an incredible story with consequences that still echo to our time. The Islamic Caliphate tried for centuries to take this city because they knew the strategic significance not only controlling access to the black sea but also as a gateway to Europe. It must be understood that that gateway to Europe is being exploited to this day and the long march of Islam is still underway.

A Vivid and Informative History.

``1453'' is the most interesting and informative history that I have listened to (or read) in a long time. The book not only deals with the battle for Constantinople, it covers the political dealings of the Pope and the city states of Italy in deciding whether to send military support to defend the city. The origins of the Turkish people is also covered. Not a dry historic account. The author's narrative of some of the battles are as exciting as those found in a historical fiction novel. The reader is excellent.
As a follow-up to ``1453'' I listened to the historic fiction novel, ``The Dark Angel'' by Mika Walteri (also available on Audible). ``Dark Angel, while fiction, retells most of the historic events and people that are contained in ``1453.''
I recommend both books and I look forward to listening/reading Roger Crowley's other histories.

A grand story beautifully read.

This book tells the story of the fall of Constantinople with great balance between sufficient detail to really understand the people and events but without such minutiae that would make it tedious. As a reader who has not read a lot of history, especially of the "ancient" varies, I was captured by this story and am inspired to seek other similar works.

Thanks to the author and the reader!

Enthralling

This story was incredible. Hard to listen to in parts knowing how devastating this event was to the Greek people and Orthodox Church. The author makes you forget that you know the end and start rooting for people. The narration is flawless

First rate experience of an important historical event

I’ve long been an admirer of the Eastern Roman civilization. This audio book is a first rate in depth explanation of the sad and heroic final days of this period of history. At the end of all great civilizations there is always a sadness for those whom are inspired by great history. A great and enjoyable listening.