"5,000 years of Monarchy provides a fresh and thought-provoking approach through the lens of 'power structure.' Dr. Arnheim's ability to weave anecdote and recurring themes in analyzing history, political philosophy, and law, in an unflinching, and iconoclastic way is an exceptional talent. Breathtaking in breadth and depth of scholarship, an eminently readable treat for academic and lay historian alike." --RALPH A. HOLSTEIN, Lieutenant Colonel, USA (Retired) "A masterpiece, staggering in its breadth and depth. From Urukagina, Sumerian king of Lagash (24th century BCE) to Donald Trump and all points in-between, there is not a significant moment of history left untouched by Arnheim's insightful analysis. A must for any lover of history.
" --EWAN MOCHRIE, NLP Psychotherapist "Michael Arnheim again with his unique skill set brings a refreshing perspective to a popular area of study in another wide ranging and well resourced book. He challenges the prevailing taxonomy of power structures in societies across the millennia and applies forensic analysis to expose slovenly generalisations and to propose a new and clear model in their place." --DR MARK GRETASON, Bishop, Free Church of England WHO REALLY HOLDS POWER? A BOLD NEW TAKE ON FIVE MILLENNIA OF RULE - WITH OVER 30 ILLUSTRATIONS Five Thousand Years of Monarchy reveals a striking truth: every regime, no matter how democratic it appears, is either a monarchy or an oligarchy. With sharp insight and a flair for storytelling, Michael Arnheim reframes world history through the lens of power structure, showing how real authority has always rested in the hands of one--or a few. This fresh perspective sheds light on some of history's most enduring puzzles, from the failure of the French monarchy to the astonishing longevity of Imperial China. Arnheim weaves together captivating anecdotes, unexpected facts, and a sweeping command of global history. Learn how Spain's Philip II ruled England in name and law, how autocracy might have prevented World War I, and why oligarchies have always feared true monarchs. With humor, clarity, and unapologetic originality, this book turns conventional wisdom on its head and challenges readers to rethink the foundations of power and politics.