The Edge of the Plain

"The Edge of the Plain" by James Crawford offers a comprehensive exploration of the history and significance of borders across the globe, examining how they have been imagined, mapped, and contested throughout time. Blending history, travel writing, and reportage, the book delves into the various scales at which borders operate—from ancient empires and mythological gates to modern virtual boundaries and biological barriers. It highlights how borders shape human civilization and influence contemporary issues such as nationalism, climate change, and migration.