Description

Encyclopedia Of Ancient Asian CivilizationsHIGHAM CharlesThe civilisations of Ancient Asia have played a major role in humankind’s development through their accumulated knowledge and impressive achievements, yet they are little known to most Americans. Encyclopedia of Ancient Asian Civilizations is a new and exciting addition to Facts On File’s series of encyclopedias on ancient history. Written by one of the pre-eminent scholars in the field, this authoritative single-volume reference covers ancient Asia from the Indus Valley Civilisation in approximately 3000 BCE through the Cambodian empires of Funan, Chenla, and Angkor that lasted until the 15th century. No previous work has brought together the complete range of early states under one cover. In many cases the civilisations included have thus far been treated only marginally in English literature. Encyclopedia of Ancient Asian Civilizations is the ideal resource for high school and college students researching the subject as well as a useful schorlarly reference. Likewise, the many travellers who are headed to Asia will find this historical overview enlightening. The encyclopedia begins with a lenghty introduction to the history of the region, followed by approximately 900 detailed A-to-Z entries that cover archaelogical sties, agricultural and economic development, personalities and political institutions, as well as articles on religion, trade, warfare, and other important topics. Easy to use and valuable for quick reference, more in-depth research, and browsing , this volume is an essential addition to every library’s world history collection. Civilisations covered include: >Ancient Burma >Ancient China >Ancient India >Ancient Japan >Ancient Korea >Ancient Sri Lanka >Central Asia & the Silk Road >Champa in Vietnam >Dvaravati in Thailand >Funan, Chenla, & Angkor in Cambodia >The Indus Civilisation >The Maritime states of Southeast Asia Charles Higham is professor of anthropology at the University of Otago in New Zealand. Recognised as one of the leading international authorities on the civilisation of southeast and East Asia, he has, over more than 30 years, directed a series of major excavations in Thailand, and been the author of more than a dozen books, including The Civilization of Angkor and The Bronze Age of Southeast Asia.