Ancient history covers a vast period from the first written records about five thousand years ago to the fall of the Roman Empire. During this period the world was richly varied in its social, political, economic, and cultural life. This handy reference book is organized around twelve great civilizations, including ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, Rome, and China, as well as societies of Africa, South Asia, Australia, and the Americas. Each chapter focuses on a civilization’s key social and technological developments and includes a timeline. Notable cultural achievements are highlighted with color photographs of ancient art and artifacts.