Journey through more than 100,000 years of history to find out what the past was like for real people - for young and old, rich and poor. Discover how and why some societies developed into great civilizations or mighty empires, while others held on to a primitive tribal existence. The great civilizations of the past are compared and contrasted, from the ancient Egyptians to the Greeks, from historic China to Japan, to demonstrate and illuminate the unique part each has played in the development of life as we know it today. Discover why some civilizations like the Romans, the Aztecs, and the Vikings chose constantly to go to war, conquering and plundering new peoples, while other communities evolved superior skills in diplomacy, negotiation, food production, philosophy, science, and the arts. This is a highly exciting, comprehensive, authoritative and visually stimulating encyclopedia, reference source and activity book. It will be perfect as a home study aid or class textbook, and will be an invaluable addition to any school or general library.