The Oxford Desk Dictionary of People and Places

This comprehensive reference work delivers essential biographical and geographical knowledge through remarkably concise entries, covering thousands of significant figures from ancient history to modern times and locations across the globe. Each person entry efficiently packages pronunciation, vital dates, nationality, and key achievements into tight 20-50 word summaries, while US presidents receive expanded treatment with special information boxes. The geographical section spans capitals, historic cities, notable regions, and important landmarks, enhanced by practical maps that provide immediate visual context for the 10,000 places documented.

What distinguishes this reference is its masterful balance of breadth and brevity, making complex historical and geographical information immediately accessible without overwhelming detail. Students researching paper topics, travelers planning itineraries, or trivia enthusiasts seeking quick facts will find this an indispensable desk companion. The dictionary's structured approach to condensing vast knowledge into digestible entries transforms it from a mere reference into a powerful tool for rapid learning and discovery across history, biography, and world geography.