World Prehistory: A Brief Introduction

by Brian M. Fagan

Written by one of the leading archaeological writers in the world--in a simple, jargon-free narrative style--this brief, well-illustrated account of the major developments in the human past (from the origins of humanity to the origins of literate civilization) is ideal for those with no previous knowledge of the subject. Up to date and state of the art in content and perspective, it covers the entire world (not just the Americas or Europe), placing major emphasis on both theories and the latest archaeological and multidisciplinary approaches. The main focus is on four major developments--the origins of humanity; the appearance and spread of modern humans before and during the late Ice Age, including the first settlement of the Americas; the beginnings of food production; and the rise of the first civilizations. Features special boxes on Science (e.g., key dating methods and other scientific approaches), Sites (e.g., sites of unusual importance or interest, and Voices (e.g., quotes from writings of ancient times). Human Origins. African Exodus. Diaspora. The Origins of Food Production. The First Farmers. Chiefs and Chiefdoms. State-Organized Societies. Mesopotamia and the Eastern Mediterranean World. Egypt and Africa. South, Southeast, And East Asia. Lowland Mesoamerica. Highland Mesamerica. Andean Civilizations. For anyone interested in Archaeology, World Prehistory, Human Antiquity.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Archaeology, Anthropology, Ancient History

391 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1979

About the author

Brian Murray Fagan was a British author of popular archaeology books and a professor emeritus of Anthropology at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Reviews

[Kyle · Rating 3 out of 5]

A college textbook. I am teaching the Stone Age and early civilizations, and this was a good primer for me. Not for the feint of heart.

[Blessy Abraham · Rating 3 out of 5]

An nice introductory text to world prehistory. I think it is something that can be useful as an introductory text to those unfamiliar with prehistoric cultures of America, Asia, Europe and Africa. However, the book does not strictly cover prehistory but also spends a good time discussing various protohistoric and preindustrial civilizations. Therefore, the title is a bit misleading in that sense. Nonetheless, a useful book for beginners or history enthusiasts.

[arthur plazibat · Rating 2 out of 5]

It feels like it was written in a very generic way. The topics are addressed only superficially. There is no depth to the information, nor is there any appeal in the way it is presented. Wikipedia is a better option compared to this book. I had a hard time finishing it.

[Salam Taha · Rating 4 out of 5]

a simply presented book, with wide angle view, a bit of something into everything, good feed for the generic public and / or college students

[Rachel Welton · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good for references. Boring to listen to.

[Trunatrschild · Rating 4 out of 5]

An ordinary textbook, not very thorough, I wouldn't buy it for general information, it's too general.

[Regina Hunter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great book, a bit outdated.

[Abdul Rehman · Rating 5 out of 5]

World Prehistory: A Brief Introduction (8th Edition)