Michael Shally-Jensen

"This all-encompassing encyclopedia provides a broad perspective on U.S. politics, culture, and society, but also goes beyond the facts to consider the myths, ideals, and values that help shape and define the nation"--

This work covers world cultures from prehistory through the year 700 C.E. with in-depth analysis of civilizations, key figures, cities, cultures and daily life. Coverage stretches beyond the boundaries of the Western world of Greece, Rome and Europe, to include Egypt, China, the Near East, Africa, providing a global background to ancient history.