Eric Hobsbawm challenges the idea that the 20th century was long. In fact, he argues that the 20th century was shorter due to a series of challenges. Personally, I think this book is fantastic if studying any part of the 20th century, particularly the earlier and later parts. One criticism I would state is that there is not much on colonialism and colonisation. The effects of colonisation on many countries including the Asia Pacific region in the 20th century is of great importance during this time period. Otherwise a very impactful insight into the short 20th century.