“What if?...” is a question that any historical researcher asks. Who doesn't sometimes want to replay the past in the hope of understanding and changing the present? Here is a collection of essays written by prominent American scholars and telling about key moments in history. The authors covered almost three thousand years - from ancient Assyria to the present day. For each “critical point” they present their analysis of the likely consequences of changing the course of events and try to build a picture of a new world. Some conclusions may seem funny, others - frightening, others will make the reader think. The book will be of interest to both specialists and history buffs.