Includes index.

Machine generated contents note: MILESTONES -- The Rise of Agriculture & Complex Societies -- The Evolution of Writing -- The Classical Tradition -- The Silk Road & the East-West Connection -- Plagues & Peoples -- Gutenberg & the Print Revolution -- Slave Trade & Colonialism -- The Rise of Democracy -- Technology Shrinks the World -- The Search for World Order -- MAJOR ERAS -- Ancient World: prehistory -- 500B.C -- Human Evolution & Early Migration Prehistory -- 3000 B.C -- Mesopotamian Civilizations 3500 -- 500 B.C -- The Lessons of Judaism -- Egyptian Civilization 3000 -- 500 B.C -- The Divine Right of Queens -- Indian Civilization 2500 -- 500 B.C -- The Multiplicity of Hinduism -- Chinese Civilization 2000 -- 500 B.C -- Mediterranean Civilizations 2000 -- 500 B.C -- Olmec of Mesoamerica 1200 -- 400 B.C -- World Survey Prehistory -- 500 B.C -- Classical World: 550 B.C.-A.D. 700 -- Persia 550 B.C. -- A.D. 651 -- North American Cultures 500 B.C. -- A.D. 400 --

With authoritative and enlightening essays and detailed maps, charts, and time lines, National Geographic Almanac of World History encapsulates in one volume all of the important people and events that have changed the world. In chronological chapters, this amazing almanac reveals the fascinating story of the growth and change of society, from the Neanderthals to the nuclear age. Culled from the extensive National Geographic archives, Almanac of World History includes more than 220 maps, photographs, and illustrations to enhance readers' understanding of history. Each chapter features three types of easy-to-access entries, including lively introductory spreads that are filled with time lines, charts, images, and sidebars; essay spreads that give more in-depth information on a person, place, or event; and finally, summary spreads that reveal what was happening simultaneously in other parts of the world. Rich in cartography, information, and illustrations, National Geographic Almanac of World History is an indispensable tool for understanding both past and present. Annotation. This comprehensive, accessible reference is designed for the desk and library--with all the pertinent facts of world history from the dawn of humanity to the 21st century.