This comprehensive atlas explores the varied ritual practices and religious beliefs in the ancient cultural region thought to be the cradle of civilization. The captivating history of Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the area known as the Fertile Crescent, unfolds through a pictorial and illustrated journey. Through a robust glossary, sidebars, and thematic introductions the social studies content of this fascinating subject becomes easily digestible, for even the most reluctant reader, while the further reading section inspires future research.