Following an introduction that outlines the history of the major centers of civilization, this authoritative set features 71 alphabetical entries that explore specific topics - such as architecture, economy, art, and the military - followed by subsections on Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Islamic World. These insightful entries - including 12 on "major" topics with more in-depth coverage - allow readers to compare and contrast events in different areas of the world with ease. Key articles are supported by primary source documents, and a list of further reading complements each entry. More than 200 black-and-white photographs, maps, and sidebars accompany the text, and a glossary, chronology, general bibliography, and comprehensive index round out this accessible set.