Illustrated with more than 2,000 photographs, artworks and maps, and researched and written by a team of eminent scientists from around the world, this book offers a new perspective on ancient history. Words and pictures are organized on large format pages to show concurrent world events at a glance. The text charts the progress of civilization, highlighting changes in societies region by region, subject area by subject area - food and the environment, shelter and architecture, technology and innovation, and art and ritual. This book also provides insights into changes such as the dramatic global warming of 12,000-8,000 BC, and the way societies coped with their altered environment.