A History of the World in Numbers

The Sumerians devised a seven-day week, naming five days after the five known planets – our Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn – and the other two after the Moon and Sun.

Despite periodic economic downturns, natural disasters and conflicts that continue to erupt around the globe, more people today live longer, live a healthier lifestyle and have a far higher standard of living than ever before, and the Second World War was the main catalyst that instigated changes in the modern age. If the pace of progress we have seen since the end of that landmark is maintained, then the numbers are looking good for the future

I would also like to thank my husband Robin for his sterling support on the home front.