Past Worlds: The Times Atlas of Archaeology

by Chris Scarre

An archaeological retelling of the human story uses maps, illustrations, photographs, and meticulous reconstructions of ancient sites, applying the latest scientific techniques to the examination of Old World empires and more obscure civilizations.

Genres: History, Reference, Nonfiction, World History, Archaeology, Historical, Art

320 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1988

Reviews

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that this book doesn't just cover King Tut's tomb and the remains of Pompeii and then call it a day. This book is truly global, covering all the places humans have lived pre-19th century, which means the book examines remains of human habitation absolutely everywhere except Antarctica and the planet's orbit. (Note to self - someday space stations will be the coolest archaeology sites ever.)

The book looks at the remains of the homes and graves of humans from the Arctic circle to South Africa, from the American Southwest to south east Australia, and every where in between. Nothing is too in depth, since so much is being covered, but its a fascinating encyclopedia of human history.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I mostly read the Ancient Egyptian sections, and will probably be referencing it again next year. There appears to be an extensive section on Asia and the Pacific cultures.

[Belle Meade School]

930.1

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really interesting look at some past cultures and how people have lived at different times and places, made more accessible by the illustrations. A great one for parents to read with the kids. A useful reference for authors writing period fiction, as well.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous book! Much more readable than his Human Past. Clear colour pics and photos.

[Theresa · Rating 2 out of 5]

very diverse over view of archeology with large pages of maps and historical architecture and ideas

[Dennis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I already knew this, but societies have come and gone before us, many more socialogically advanced.