Discovering the people and places of long ago. Great cities built and destroyed, wars lost and won, the birth of new religions - this book reveals the forces that shaped our distant past. You can find out about daily life, customs and beliefs, famous buildings and the great thinkers of the day. Detailed maps show the major historical sites of early human development and place them in geographical and political context. The worlds of ancient peoples, from the Sumerians in the Middle East to the Maya in Central America are brought to life with vivid illustrations and photographs. You can...