This book provides a concise yet comprehensive synthesis of the complexities of famine in world history, from antiquity to the present day.

The work explores the broad causes and consequences of famine over time and in different geographies. Providing global examples from western Europe, China, Southeast Asia, and Africa, the book provides context and perspective to each case, drawing comparisons where they exist. The book discusses environmental issues, government policy, gender, empire and military conflicts, as well the aftermath of famine: health issues, memory, and accountability.

Famine in World History is an ideal overview for undergraduate students of World History, 20th century European, Asian, and African history.