In "Atrocities," Matthew White embarks on a groundbreaking exploration of humanity's darkest moments, presenting an unparalleled account of history's most violent events through the lens of an "atrocitologist." With meticulous research and a captivating narrative, White charts a course from the ancient battlefields of 480 BCE to the modern-day conflicts, weaving together a tapestry of human cruelty and the indomitable spirit that often arises from it. Through a combination of hard facts, insightful analysis, and vivid storytelling, he not only lays bare the grim numbers that underscore each event but also delves deep into the military, social, and political histories that shaped them. This book is not just a recounting of human suffering but a nuanced look at the complexities of history, offering readers a chance to engage with the past in a profoundly meaningful way. White's approach to history is both innovative and provocative, as he ranks each atrocity by its death toll, a method that challenges the reader to confront the scale of human loss head-on. Yet, it's his ability to balance the stark realities with a sense of empathy for the victims that sets this work apart. "Atrocities" invites us to ponder the depths of human depravity and the resilience of the human spirit in equal measure. Accompanied by black-and-white illustrations and maps that provide visual context to the narrative, this book is a compelling, if at times unsettling, reminder of the darkness that lurks in the human heart. It's an essential read for those who seek to understand the worst of human actions not to despair, but to learn, remember, and, hopefully, to prevent their recurrence.